Clean UAE 2025 Launches in Dubai With Remarkable Participation and Nationwide Momentum

The 24th cycle of the Clean UAE campaign, organised by the Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) under the patronage of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, began its nationwide journey in Dubai with exceptional energy and community spirit. The launch, held during the “Year of Community,” brought together thousands of volunteers, partners and supporters who shared a united commitment to safeguarding the UAE’s environment. The nationwide initiative will continue across all seven Emirates and conclude on 16 December in Abu Dhabi.

In strong partnership with Dubai Municipality, the opening event—which took place on Saturday, 6 December 2025—attracted an impressive 8,500 participants. Gathering in the Bur Ruwayyah area, volunteers fanned out across more than 12 kilometres of natural terrain, where their collective efforts resulted in the collection, sorting and redirection of substantial waste materials. The first leg of the campaign reinforced how coordinated community action can create immediate, measurable environmental benefits.

EEG provided sustainable cotton T-shirts, caps, gloves and biodegradable bags to minimise single-use waste. Volunteers collected 5,570 kg of general waste, along with 1,000 kg of paper, 350 kg of plastic, 50 kg of aluminium cans, 500 kg of scrap metal and 500 kg of glass. All recyclables were segregated and delivered to local recycling facilities—directly supporting the UAE’s journey toward a circular economy.

Dr. Habiba Al Mar’ashi, Co-Founder and Chairperson of EEG, expressed profound gratitude to all volunteers, partners and supporters. She highlighted that the Clean UAE campaign—supported by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and Dubai Municipality—remains one of the UAE’s most influential community-driven environmental movements. Over the past 24 years, it has grown into a powerful platform for environmental education, community participation and behavioural transformation.

She added that this year’s cycle aligns strongly with national sustainability priorities, particularly those promoted during the Year of Community, fostering unity, volunteerism and civic responsibility. Dr. Al Mar’ashi reaffirmed EEG’s guiding philosophy of “thinking globally and acting locally,” emphasising how the campaign contributes to key UN Sustainable Development Goals, including Good Health and Well-Being, Sustainable Cities, Responsible Consumption, Climate Action, Life on Land and Partnerships for the Goals.

McDonald’s UAE, a longstanding sustainability partner of EEG, reiterated its commitment to environmental responsibility. CEO Walid Fakih noted that the company is proud to sponsor Clean UAE 2025 and looks forward to having its team actively participate on the ground.

Dr. Al Mar’ashi also extended appreciation to the campaign’s Main Sponsors—McDonald’s UAE and Salik—whose support played a crucial role in the success of the Dubai launch. She acknowledged contributions from Support Sponsors including CANPACK Middle East, Dubai Investments and Farnek, as well as Technical Partner ADNOC. Additional recognition was given to the CSR Partner, the Arabia CSR Network, and supporting entities such as Abela & Co., Almarai, Aster Group, Byrne Equipment Rental, Del Monte, Fujairah Plastic Factories, ISS Relocations and Oasis Water Company.

Media Partners including Al Murad Group, Channel 4, Gold 94.7 FM, Radio 4, biz Today, CPI Industry, Gulf News and Pan Asian Media were also thanked for their vital role in amplifying the campaign’s impact nationwide.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Al Mar’ashi described the opening event as a powerful illustration of national unity, environmental awareness and collective responsibility. She affirmed EEG’s ongoing commitment to the UAE’s sustainability goals, circular economy transition and long-term climate neutrality. The Clean UAE 2025 campaign, she noted, continues to inspire a cleaner, greener and more resilient future for generations to come.