Emirates Environmental Group Concludes the “Year of Community” by Planting 3,791 Indigenous Trees in Ras Al Khaimah
Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) concluded the year 2025 with the successful implementation of its annual tree-planting campaign, “For Our Emirates We Plant.” Held on 23rd December, the event took place under the esteemed patronage and presence of His Highness Engr. Sheikh Salem Bin Sultan bin Saqr Al-Qasimi, President of the RAK Civil Aviation Authority, Member of the Executive Council of the Government of Ras Al Khaimah, and an Honorary Member of EEG.
The campaign brought together 1,573 participants from academic institutions, the corporate sector, government entities and the wider community. United in purpose, they planted 3,791 native Sidr & Samar saplings within the Bee Reserve of Skheibar in the Al Minei Area of Ras Al Khaimah. The initiative reflected the UAE’s dedication to ecological restoration and biodiversity enhancement and carried particular meaning as it aligned with the Year of Community—a national call to reinforce unity, volunteerism and shared responsibility.
His Highness Engr. Sheikh Salem Bin Sultan bin Saqr Al-Qasimi stated: “Today’s gathering is a testament to the UAE’s enduring spirit of unity and environmental responsibility. I applaud the vision of the Emirates Environmental Group for leading these massive initiatives that help restore our natural landscapes and inspire our communities to act with purpose. I extend my sincere appreciation to every participant who has contributed to this meaningful event. Together, we are nurturing a greener Ras Al Khaimah and reinforcing our commitment to a sustainable future for the Emirates.”
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Habiba Al Mar’ashi, Co-Founder and Chairperson of EEG highlighted the purpose that anchors this annual campaign, stating: “Today’s initiative extends far beyond the planting of trees; it reflects our collective duty to protect the UAE’s natural heritage and to cultivate a culture of stewardship. Each sapling planted symbolises hope, unity and our determination to secure a healthier future for generations to come.”
She continued by emphasising the ecological significance of the native saplings planted:
“These saplings will grow into living pillars of resilience — enriching soil, restoring balance to native habitats and supporting the bees, birds and wildlife that depend on them. They will act as natural carbon sinks and vital contributors to cleaner air, healthier and more resilient ecosystems. This is not just a planting exercise; it is a powerful demonstration of community action. Today, each of you has played a meaningful role in advancing the UAE’s path toward a sustainable and climate-secure future.”
Dr. Al Mar’ashi also highlighted the long-term impact of EEG’s urban afforestation efforts:
“Since its inception in 2007, and under the umbrella of UNEP’s global call ‘Plant for the Planet’ campaign, our ‘For Our Emirates We Plant’ programme has enabled the plantation of more than 2,155,786 native trees across the UAE with a cumulative CO2 reduction of 186,265.92 Mt. In 2025 alone, EEG planted 14,301 trees — a testament to our enduring commitment to expanding green cover and strengthening the UAE’s natural landscapes.”
The event was enriched through the enthusiastic participation of EEG’s diverse stakeholders and the generous in-kind support of organisations such as Almarai, Oasis, DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai Al Jadaf and Delmonte. Their contributions reflect a shared understanding that meaningful environmental progress relies on strong partnerships and collective commitment toward a sustainable future.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Al Mar’ashi expressed heartfelt gratitude, noting: “Today’s achievements reflect the power of collective action and the unwavering spirit of our community. Every individual and every entity who stood with us has contributed to shaping a greener, healthier and more resilient UAE. Your dedication strengthens our resolve to continue championing environmental stewardship across the nation.”
She concluded by reaffirming EEG’s enduring motto, reminding all participants that true progress is only possible when we stand ‘Together for a Better Environment.’”
Editors’ Note:
Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) is a professional working group established in 1991 in the United Arab Emirates. It is devoted to protecting the environment through the means of education, action programmes and community involvement. EEG is actively encouraged and supported by concerned local and federal government agencies. It is the 1st environmental NGO in the world to be ISO 14001 certified and the only organisation of its kind in the UAE with accredited status to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).
EEG is a member of the UN Global Compact, the Global Urban Development (GUD) and the Global Investors for Sustainable Alliance (GISD). It is also a member of the One Planet Network under the programme of Sustainable Food Systems (SFS) and its Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Committee (MAC) and Global Partnership on Marine Litter (GPML), EEG is a full Member (voting) of World Packaging Organisation (WPO).
