President Sheikh Mohamed has called on the nation to draw on its rich heritage and history to build a more sustainable future.
In a message to mark National Environment Day, Sheikh Mohamed said on X that the nation can "draw inspiration from our history of sustainable progress and renew our determination to protect the environment and preserve its resources for future generations".
"The UAE remains committed to supporting international climate action efforts and promoting collective responsibility towards shared global challenges."
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, also took to social media to express his wishes for the annual national occasion.
"We call on everyone to play their part in preserving a nature-friendly lifestyle...and we call on everyone to preserve our national gains in the field of sustainability." said Sheikh Mohammed on X.
New theme
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has announced the theme of the 28th National Environment Day as ‘Our Heritage … Our Future’ - with the aim of drawing on historical sustainability practices to inspire future generations.
National Environment Day falls on February 4 each year, and this year’s theme builds on Sheikh Mohamed’s declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community, underscoring the role of communities in driving national progress.
Announcing the theme of this year's National Environment Day, Dr Amna Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said that "the community is the cornerstone of the country’s long-term development plans, and every individual must be fully aware and equipped to contribute to enhancing the UAE’s position as a global leader in sustainability and the future."
Ancient practices drive sustainability
From sustainable farming methods, to natural "air conditioning" - throughout history, Emiratis have engaged various methods based on their environment to live sustainably.
In response to extreme temperatures, the people of the UAE in the past built sustainable structures such as wind towers, known as barajeel in Arabic. These are tall towers constructed above buildings with openings at the top to catch wind to cool the rooms below - serving as a natural form of air-conditioning.
Other traditional practices include industries such as "safeyat" or palm frond crafts. This craft has traditionally been used to create everyday items such as baskets, bags, and food covers.
Sustainability in action
To engage the community in this year's National Environment Day theme - the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment will host community events and activities in collaboration with relevant authorities up to World Environment Day on June 5th.
These initiatives aim to highlight traditional sustainable practices of the UAE community and bridge them to apply in a modern context, addressing today's environmental challenges.
In a statement, the Ministry said the key focus areas of this initiative will include small-scale farming, sustainable mobility, sustainable waste management, responsible consumption of products and services, and efficient use of electricity, water, and food.
