How Did Arboriculture Start in Dubai?
Once upon a time, Dubai was a barren desert, with only a few hardy shrubs and some date palms providing relief from the sand dunes. Fast forward to the present day, and the city has transformed into a verdant oasis. So, how did this incredible change happen?
The Visionaries Behind the Greenery
To understand the rise of arboriculture in Dubai, one must first look at the leaders who envisioned a greener city. Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and his son, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, had a dream to turn the desert into a lush landscape. Their determination and foresight led to the creation of numerous green spaces, parks, and gardens that now dot the city.
From Desert to Oasis: The Early Steps
The first step in turning the desert into a green paradise was to plant trees that could withstand the harsh climate. In the early 1960s, Dubai began importing tree species like the Ghaf, Prosopis, and Acacia, which could tolerate drought and high temperatures. As these trees began to thrive, they created microclimates that allowed other, more delicate species to take root.
Date Palms: A Staple of the Landscape
While many different tree species have contributed to Dubai’s transformation, one tree, in particular, has played a crucial role: the date palm. This versatile tree has been a staple of Middle Eastern culture for thousands of years, providing both shade and sustenance. It’s no surprise that it was one of the first trees planted when Dubai started its greening journey.
Modern Techniques in Arboriculture
As Dubai continued to grow, so too did its need for more advanced arboricultural techniques. Today, the city employs cutting-edge technologies like tree transplantation, soil-less planting, and computerized irrigation systems to ensure that its green spaces remain healthy and vibrant.
How Do They Maintain Such Greenery in the Desert?
One of the biggest challenges faced by arborists in Dubai is the lack of water. To overcome this hurdle, the city has developed innovative solutions like using treated sewage water for irrigation and implementing water-saving technologies. This has allowed Dubai to maintain its lush landscapes even in the face of limited water resources.
The Future of Arboriculture in Dubai
Dubai’s commitment to arboriculture shows no signs of slowing down. With plans for more parks, green spaces, and tree-lined streets, the city is set to continue its transformation into a green oasis. Moreover, ongoing research and innovation will help to ensure that Dubai remains a world leader in arboriculture and sustainable urban development.
Fun Facts About Trees in Dubai
- The total number of trees in Dubai is estimated to be over 14 million.
- Dubai Miracle Garden is home to more than 50 million flowers and 250 million plants.
- The city has over 70 public parks, with more in development.
Links for Further Reading
- URL:
- URL:
- URL:
More from our collection
Need to learn about another tree? Try some of these:
Back to the TreeFuture main page
