This Initiative By Dubai Slashes Single-Use Plastic Bottle Use By 18 Million

In a significant stride towards sustainability, Dubai has reported a marked reduction in the use of single-use plastic water bottles, thanks to the citywide initiative, Dubai Can. Launched on February 15, 2022, by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, the initiative has successfully eliminated the need for nearly 18 million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles within two years. This achievement aligns with Dubai's vision, as articulated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to position Dubai as a leading sustainable destination.

Facilitated by the provision of 50 public water stations across strategic locations in the city, Dubai Can has dispensed close to nine million litres of water. These stations are not only a step towards reducing plastic waste but also promote a healthier lifestyle and a smaller carbon footprint. The initiative is in line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan and the UAE's goals for the UN Sustainable Development Goals and UAE NetZero 2050 targets, underscoring Dubai's commitment to environmental sustainability.

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With the extension of the UAE's "Year of Sustainability" into 2024, Dubai Can plans to further expand its impact by installing 30 additional water fountains by year-end. Yousuf Lootah, Acting CEO of Corporate Strategy and Performance Sector, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, highlighted the initiative's success and its alignment with Dubai's ambition to become a top global city for business and leisure. He emphasized the role of Dubai Can in driving behavioural changes essential for addressing environmental challenges.

Moreover, the success of Dubai Can has motivated private companies in Dubai to install water fountains in their offices, contributing to a reduction in single-use plastics in the workplace. This movement towards sustainability has encouraged both residents and visitors to adopt more sustainable behaviour and become conscientious consumers.

The water stations installed across the city meet the highest hygiene standards, complying with municipal, healthcare, and federal regulations. These stations provide clean and safe drinking water, tested in accordance with standards set by the Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA), Gulf Cooperation Council, and World Health Organisation. The initiative highlights the alarming average use of 450 plastic water bottles per resident annually in the UAE, translating to 4 billion plastic bottles used across the country each year. Dubai Can's efforts aim to significantly reduce this figure, preventing millions of plastic bottles from polluting landfills and oceans.

Where are the Dubai Can Refill Stations Located in the City?

• A4 Space Water Station Refilled by Alserkal
• 2Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
• Al Seef
• Al Shindagha Historical District
• Al Ittihad Park
• Bluewaters Island
• Burj Park
• City Walk
• City Centre Deira
• DMCC Metro Station
• Dragon Mart
• Dubai Festival City
• Dubai Harbour
• Dubai Marina Al Gharbi Street
• Dubai Marina Mall
• Dubai Marina Promenade
• Dubai Marina Walk
• Dubai World Trade Centre
• Executive Towers
• Gold Souk - Deira
• EXPO 2020 Dubai
• JLT Park
• Kite Beach
• The Beach 2
• Madinat Jumeirah
• Mall of the Emirates Metro Station
• Quranic Park
• Skydive Dubai
• The Beach 1
• The Greens & Views
• Palm West Beach
• Zabeel Park
• Al Ghubaiba Metro Station
• Al Barsha Pond Park
• Al Safa Park
• Sunset Mall
• Mushrif National Park
• Jumeirah Beach 2
• JBR Community
• DIFC Gate Avenue
• Al Qudra Last Exit
• Business Bay Marine Station
• Dubai Marina Al Rahim Mosque
• Dubai Media City
• North Park
• Arabian Ranches
• Dubai Sports City - Tennis Court
• Dubai Sports City - Football Pitches
• Southridge Downtown
• Hatta Hill Park
• Dubai Knowledge Park
• Last Exit, Al Khawaneej
• Port Rashid Fountain
• Dubai Internet City
• Four Points by Sheraton SZR
• Media One Hotel

In addition to combating plastic pollution, Dubai has introduced the Dubai Reef project in December 2023. As one of the world's largest marine reef developments, Dubai Reef contributes to increasing fish stocks, supporting sustainable fishing, and enhancing food security. The project also plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and increasing marine biodiversity, further solidifying Dubai's commitment to environmental sustainability.