The Dubai Mangroves project is a major initiative by Urb, a Dubai-based company, to transform the city’s coastal area into giant mangrove forests. This ambitious plan aims to combat erosion, reduce flooding and lower CO2 emissions. The project involves planting over 100 million mangrove trees, which will serve as a natural barrier against rising sea levels and protect the city from erosion.
Urb is no stranger to large-scale projects in Dubai. The company has previously undertaken successful initiatives like the air-conditioned cycling track and coral reef regeneration. The new Dubai Mangroves project will span over 72 km, with the focus on the mangrove tree – known for its ability to absorb CO2, prevent erosion, support marine life and ensure food security. By collecting 1.23 million tons of CO2 annually, equivalent to emissions from over 260,000 gasoline-powered vehicles, this project will significantly contribute towards reducing Dubai’s carbon footprint.
In addition to serving as a carbon sink, the mangroves will also act as nurseries for marine life, increase fish stocks and filter water with their roots. However, planting such a large number of trees is no easy task. To promote tree growth and monitor progress, Urb plans to use AI-powered drones and satellite photography.
The Dubai Mangroves project is currently in the design phase but has already selected six pilot studies to demonstrate feasibility and help Dubai adapt to climate change effects. Once completed, this project will not only benefit the environment but also provide residents with small beaches, social spaces, walkways and educational opportunities through a visitor education center, botanical museum and nature research center.