Dubai is gearing up to host the second edition of Eco Walk 2024, a community-centered event aimed at fostering environmental sustainability across the UAE. Set for Saturday, November 9, at Al Forsan Park in Expo City Dubai, the event will run from 8 AM to noon and will feature a series of eco-friendly activities and interactive experiences designed to engage participants in the nation’s green goals.
A highlight of Eco Walk will be the ceremonial planting of the Ghaf tree — the UAE’s national symbol of resilience and sustainability — at 9 AM. Dr. Abdallah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, former Minister of Climate Change and Environment and current chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council, will lead the planting ceremony. This symbolic act is part of the larger “Plant the Emirates” initiative, which aims to increase reforestation efforts and boost climate resilience throughout the country.
In total, Eco Walk will oversee the planting of 2,000 Ghaf trees across the UAE, underscoring the UAE’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage and combating climate change. Participants will also receive 5,000 Ghaf tree seeds to plant on their own, encouraging ongoing contributions to reforestation beyond the event.
In addition to the planting activities, the event will feature a 1.5-kilometer walk through the scenic Expo City Dubai, offering participants views of landmarks such as the Sustainability Pavilion and Terra Pavilion. These stops highlight Dubai’s cutting-edge efforts in sustainable urban development and showcase eco-conscious practices in action.
The festivities will open with a lively performance by the Dubai Police Band, setting an energetic tone for the day. Juhi Yasmeen Khan, founder of Eco Walk, emphasized the broader mission behind the event: “We want this event to serve as a call to action for individuals, communities, and organizations to come together for a greener UAE. By planting trees and walking side by side, we can inspire a culture of sustainability for generations to come.”
Key organizations such as Expo City Dubai, Dubai Sports Council, and Dubai Police are backing Eco Walk 2024, with additional support from Unilever, Bupa Foundation, and Dar Al Ber Society, among others. Through these collaborations, Eco Walk aims to drive community involvement in sustainable practices and strengthen the UAE’s green legacy.
