Urban planners in several Arab cities are increasingly turning to green spaces as a solution to rising temperatures. Reports indicate that cities like Dubai, Riyadh, and Kuwait City are implementing large-scale tree-planting initiatives to reduce the urban heat island effect. These efforts are part of broader climate adaptation strategies aimed at improving public health and reducing energy consumption during extreme heatwaves.
The initiative involves the introduction of native and drought-resistant plant species, which are better suited to the region’s arid climate. According to local environmental agencies, these plants can lower surface temperatures by up to 5 degrees Celsius in shaded areas. In Dubai, for example, the government has launched a program to plant one million trees by 2025, focusing on parks, roadways, and public buildings.
This shift reflects a growing awareness of the impact of climate change on urban environments. Over the past decade, average temperatures in many Arab cities have increased by 1.5 to 2 degrees Celsius, leading to higher energy costs and health risks. Experts note that green spaces not only provide cooling but also improve air quality and support biodiversity. The movement is also influenced by global trends in sustainable urban development, with many cities looking to integrate nature into their infrastructure.
