Photo Credit : X / UAEmediaoffice
The UAE has launched Naseej, a national initiative aimed at transforming the country’s textile sector into a circular economy model, under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The initiative seeks to reduce textile waste and move the industry away from the traditional “take, make, dispose” approach towards a more sustainable system focused on resource efficiency, recycling, and long-term value creation.
Developed through a partnership between the National Projects Office, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, Emirates Foundation, and Tadweer Group, Naseej will serve as a unified national platform bringing together policymakers, businesses, researchers, and communities to accelerate circularity across the textile value chain.
The initiative is inspired by the UAE’s heritage of craftsmanship, preservation, and responsible resource use, while supporting the nation’s broader sustainability and economic diversification goals.
Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairperson of the Presidential Court for National Projects, said Naseej reflects the UAE’s commitment to sustainability by encouraging responsible consumption, positive behavioural change, and greater community participation in environmental initiatives.
Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Emirates Foundation, described the initiative as a significant step in embedding circular economy principles into the UAE’s sustainable development framework and fostering collaboration between government entities, industry, youth, and the wider community.
According to official estimates, the UAE generates around 220,000 tonnes of textile waste annually. Naseej aims to address this challenge through stronger collection and recycling systems, increased research and innovation, and greater public awareness of sustainable consumption practices.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, said the initiative establishes a national framework that aligns government policies, industry action, and public participation to support the goals of the UAE Circular Economy Policy 2031.
Naseej is built around five strategic pillars: collection and recycling, awareness and outreach, behavioural research, policies and regulations, and circular business innovation.
The initiative’s foundations were laid during COP28 through partnerships with fashion brands, manufacturers, recyclers, research institutions, and community organisations. Together, these stakeholders will help develop scalable circular textile solutions across the country.
As part of its public launch, Naseej will host “The Fabric of Possibility,” an interactive community activation at Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi from 5 to 7 June 2026. The event will encourage visitors to explore the impact of textile waste and discover practical ways to support sustainable living.
Through coordinated action across policy, industry, and society, Naseej aims to position the UAE as a global leader in circular economy implementation while supporting a more sustainable future for generations to come.
