Al Ain maintains its greenery amidst urban development with tree-lined streets.

Al Ain, the Garden City of the UAE, is a haven of greenery and trees nestled amidst the bustling urban metropolises filled with towering skyscrapers. This oasis in the desert has made the preservation and planting of trees a top priority.

Residents of Al Ain take pride in the commitment to preserving trees, making way for them in road construction to minimize disruption to the local ecosystem. This unique respect for trees has impressed long-time residents like Maha Abdou, who has witnessed the extraordinary care and consideration given to trees in the area.

The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Founding Father, was known for his passion for preserving desert trees, protecting native trees like the sidr, ghaf, and samar by law. This commitment to trees and the environment is evident in the strict regulations and penalties in place to protect trees in the region.

The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi has measures in place to safeguard trees, with fines for violations ranging from Dh10,000 to Dh20,000 per tree, depending on their location and protection status. Additionally, companies involved in construction and development projects must consult with relevant authorities and adhere to environmental impact assessments and mitigation measures to minimize harm to native trees.

Al Ain’s dedication to preserving and honoring trees is a testament to the region’s commitment to environmental sustainability and harmonizing urban development with nature. This unique approach sets Al Ain apart as a model for coexisting with nature amidst the rapid development and growth seen in the UAE.

Al Ain’s urban development coexists with its tree-lined green roots