The Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) proudly concluded the 24th cycle of its landmark national programme, the“Clean UAE”, in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi on 16thDecember. Held under the esteemed patronage of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, this year's campaign began on 6th December in Dubai and travelled with purpose across all Emirates—culminating in a powerful, unifying finale in the nation's capital, the heart of the UAE's environmental vision and leadership.
The closing event, was organised in multiple locations with the main one beingthe Ghantout Area in Abu Dhabi, and in partnership with the Department of Municipalities and Transport - Abu Dhabi City Municipality, Al Smeeh Municipality Centre and Abu Dhabi Police - Al Rahba Centreas well as ICAD Residential City and Labotel Workers Village. Their strong participationembodied the spirit of national togetherness and brought together distinguished representatives from government authorities, private sector partners, academic institutions, youth groups and community organisations, and was graced by the presence of His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al-Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary, Ministry of Climate Change and the Environment for the Food Diversity Sector, whoseparticipation underscored the UAE's unwavering commitment to conservation and sustainable development.
Thecumulativeparticipants across multiple locations in every Emirate registered an outstanding turnout of 84,123. Together, they collected 45,692 kg of waste across a sprawling area of 98km, showcasing a unified commitment to environmental preservation and sustainability.This grassroots initiative underscored their proactive role in fostering environmental responsibility and sustainability.All the recyclable materials were segregated on-site during the campaign and were meticulously sorted and forwarded to accredited recycling facilities in line with circular economy principles.
During the opening ceremony on the final day of the Clean UAE Campaign in Abu Dhabi, His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al-Hammadidelivered a speech thanking the EEG for its commitment and its success in organising this national community action programme, he highlighted the importance of continued unified national efforts to protect the environment and preserve natural ecosystems. He emphasized the pivotal role of community engagement as a key pillar in fostering a culture of sustainability and supporting environmental protection initiatives across the nation.
During the welcoming address, Engineer: Mohamed Ahmed El Alawi,Director of the Municipal Presence Center, Al-Sameeh representing the Al Samha Municipality reaffirmed the nation's dedication to advancing environmental protection through awareness, education, community involvement and the enforcement of policies that safeguard natural ecosystems. He emphasised that meaningful environmental change begins at the individual level, describing Clean UAE as a defining symbol of collective responsibility. He noted that every volunteer, organisation and student who participates strengthens the UAE's resolve to secure a healthier, more resilient future for generations to come. He concluded by extending sincere appreciation to EEG and its partners for their remarkable leadership and commitment.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Habiba Al Mar'ashi, Co-Founder and Chairperson of EEG, expressed profound gratitude to H.E. Dr. Al Hammadi for honouring the Abu Dhabi finale with his presence. She also acknowledged the tireless contributions of government institutions, academia, corporations, community groups and media partners across the nation. Reflecting on the achievements of this year's edition, she stressed that the 24th cycle once again demonstrated the extraordinary impact that is achieved when people unite with purpose.
The campaign, she noted, remains a powerful platform that brings together individuals of all ages and backgrounds and organisations; public and private who share a collective commitment to protect the UAE's environment and promote a sustainable future driven by collaboration, compassion and environmental responsibility.
This year's journey connected communities across the nation, beginning in Dubai on 6 December, moving to Fujairah on 8 December, Sharjah on 10 December, Ajman on 11 December, Umm Al Quwain on 13 December, Ras Al Khaimah on 15 Decemberand ultimately concluding in Abu Dhabi on 16 December.
She further emphasised that Clean UAE continues to align strongly with key Sustainable Development Goals, including Good Health and Wellbeing, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action, Life Below Water, Life on Land and Partnerships for the Goals. Guided by its longstanding motto, “Think globally, act locally,” the initiative stands as a powerful demonstration of how community-driven action and cross-sector collaborations can support national environmental ambitions and drive global impact.
This year's campaign also witnessed exceptional engagement from private sector organisations, government bodies as well as academic institutions.
EEG extended heartfelt appreciation to its Main Sponsors, Salik and McDonald's UAE, whose steadfast partnership has been instrumental in sustaining and expanding the programme's reach.
Sincere gratitude was also conveyed to the Support Sponsors—CANPACK Middle East, Dubai Investments and Farnekas well as the Technical Partner, ADNOC —for their invaluable role throughout the seven Emirates.
The CSR Partner, the “Arabia CSR Network” and an outstanding group of Supporting Entities, including: Abela & Co., Ahalia Medical Group, Almarai, Aster Group, Byrne Equipment Rental, Del Monte, Fujairah Plastic Factories, ISS Relocations, Intercat Hospitality, Oasis Water Company, Ajman University and University of Sharjah —each of whom provided essential support that enhanced participant experience and boosted campaign efficiency.
EEG also conveyed its gratitude to its prominent Media Partners — Al Murad Group, Channel 4, Gold 94.7 FM, Radio 4, biz Today, CPI Industry, Gulf News and Pan Asian Media — for their role in amplifying the campaign's message and extending its reach to audiences nationwide.
The Abu Dhabi finale marked a significant milestone in Clean UAE's inspiring 24-year journey. Since its inception in 2002, the programme has mobilised more than 1,148,764 volunteers, covered over 1,288 square kilometres of land, and removed more than 1,754,634 kilograms of waste from the country's natural environment.
These efforts have prevented pollution in fragile ecosystems, protected local biodiversity, and strengthened environmental consciousness across society. Dr. Al Mar'ashi concluded the ceremony with a renewed call to action, emphasising that as the UAE celebrates the success of this cycle, EEG remains fully committed to expanding its efforts, deepening its outreach and continuing its mission to build a cleaner, greener and more sustainable nation for future generations.
Editors' Note:
Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) is a professional working group established in 1991 in the United Arab Emirates. It is devoted to protecting the environment through the means of education, action programmes and community involvement. EEG is actively encouraged and supported by concerned local and federal government agencies. It is the 1st environmental NGO in the world to be ISO 14001 certified and the only organisation of its kind in the UAE with accredited status to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).
EEG is a member of the UN Global Compact, the Global Urban Development (GUD) and the Global Investors for Sustainable Alliance (GISD). It is also a member of the One Planet Network under the programme of Sustainable Food Systems (SFS) and its Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Committee (MAC) and Global Partnership on Marine Litter (GPML), EEG is a full Member (voting) of World Packaging Organisation (WPO).
For more information, contact us: email: eeg@emirates.net.ae; Tel: 04-3448622; Fax: 04-3448677 and please visit our bi-lingual website: www.eeg-uae.org; Follow us on LinkedIn, FB; X& Instagram: @eegemirates.