Dubai Sustainable Tourism part of Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism is celebrating sustainable practices across the city to mark the 50th World Environment Day, as it strives to further enhance Dubai’s position as a leading sustainable destination.

From desert conservation reserves, to sustainable restaurateurs and eco-hotels, to cultural pursuits and eco-tourism attractions, DET shone a light on 50 of the city’s pioneering initiatives sustainability across the tourism ecosystem on the World Environment Day.

Dubai’s unique ecosystem has made for generations of sustainable conservations and a distinctive connection with nature. From Bedouin practices, to nature reserves and safaris, Dubai has long had a harmonious connection with its surroundings.

Environmental protection is ingrained into the very DNA of Dubai’s natural landscape and is something that continues to be enhanced and celebrated.

Dubai Can Initiative

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, launched ‘Dubai Can’, a citywide sustainability initiative to turn the tide on plastic and inspire mass action to actively reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles.

There are currently 40 free drinking water fountains placed across the city.

Dubai Integrated Energy

The Dubai Supreme Council of Energy has formulated and launched the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 in 2011, with the purpose of diversifying sources of energy and increase the clean energy share.

Dubai aims to increase the share of clean energy to 29% and the Emirate's energy demand by 30% by 2030.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

The DDCR is the UAE’s first national park, which is a carefully planned rehabilitation centre for nature, to preserve and tend to the city’s beautiful desert habitat.

Ras Al Khor Flamingo Sanctuary

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the few protected urban areas, located in the heart of Dubai Creek. There are tens of thousands of flamingo birds.

This expansive sanctuary offers a space for the birds to breed and a safe reserve for other plants, fish and mammals to thrive. The Sanctuary is the first area recognised under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in the country.

Jumeirah Turtle Rehabilitation

This amazing project addresses the threat facing the turtle population in the Arabian Gulf, focused on rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing turtles back into the wild.

Emaar Hospitality Waste Management

Emaar group aims to reduce food waste and food waste carbon footprint in hopes of a more sustainable future in Dubai.

They aim to push for food and water waste reduction across hospitality sectors, through championing best practices and monitoring hotels and eateries across the city.

Hatta Mountain Conservation

This opulent and awe inspiring dam is a popular spot for tourists and a magnificently sustainable location, allowing a budding spot for surrounding wildlife.

Ghaf Tree Planting Activity – declared as the national tree of the UAE

This fun and interactive outdoor tree planting is available to the public for a way to boost team building whilst protecting the environment. This initiative is an amazing way to do your bit for the future of our planet whilst having fun!