UMM AL QAIWAIN: Earth Day 2025 saw a green start in Umm Al Qaiwain as 1,200 mangrove saplings were planted at Mangrove Beach. The planting initiative, part of the Emirates Environmental Group’s – EEG – national campaign “For Our Emirates We Plant,” brought together volunteers, officials, students and corporates to support the UAE’s climate goals.
Held in collaboration with Umm Al Qaiwain Municipality, the event reaffirmed EEG’s leadership in eco-action. With this effort, EEG has now planted over 2.1 million indigenous trees across the country, aiding reforestation and carbon reduction.
EEG Chairperson Habiba Al Mar’ashi welcomed the participants and praised long-time municipal partners. She highlighted that EEG’s projects are aligned with the UAE’s Plant the Emirates campaign and the wider Net Zero by 2050 strategy. Since 2007, EEG’s tree planting efforts have removed over 186,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
The choice of mangroves wasn’t just symbolic. Mangroves are environmental powerhouses, capable of absorbing four times more CO₂ than land forests. They also act as coastal guardians, support marine life, and promote ecological balance.
The Earth Day UAE EEG mangrove planting drive reflects multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals like Climate Action, Life Below Water, and Partnerships for the Goals. This year’s theme, Year of Community, made the event a celebration of unity in sustainability.
EEG also thanked event supporters including hospitality brands, educational groups, and corporates like Mövenpick, National Bonds, and Sofitel. As the mangrove saplings took root, they symbolised a shared promise for a greener tomorrow.
The UAE EEG mangrove planting event ended with a powerful reminder of EEG’s mission: Together for a Better Environment.
