The second edition of Eco Walk 2024 will take place this Saturday at Al Forsan Park, Expo City Dubai, from 8 AM to noon. This event will showcase the UAE’s commitment to environmental sustainability, with a focus on tree planting and community involvement.
A highlight of the day will be the ceremonial planting of the Ghaf tree, the national tree of the UAE, at 9 AM. This special moment will reinforce Eco Walk’s mission, with Dr. Abdallah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, the former Minister of Climate Change and Environment, joining attendees for the ceremony.
The Ghaf tree planting is part of the UAE’s ‘Plant the Emirates’ initiative, which encourages reforestation and builds climate resilience. Organizers confirmed that a total of 2,000 Ghaf trees will be planted across the country during Eco Walk.
In addition to tree planting, the event will hand out 5,000 Ghaf seeds to participants, promoting further sustainability efforts. Organizers aim to engage the community in supporting the UAE’s green initiatives through meaningful actions and practical steps toward environmental responsibility.
Participants will also enjoy a 1.5-kilometer Eco Walk, passing by key landmarks in Expo City, including the Sustainability Pavilion and Terra Pavilion, highlighting sustainable practices. The event will kick off with a performance by the Dubai Police Band.
Juhi Yasmeen Khan, the founder of Eco Walk, shared: “This is a call to action for individuals, organizations, and communities in the UAE and beyond. By planting trees and walking together, we’re not just supporting the country’s environmental goals; we’re also inspiring future generations to value sustainability.”
Major organizations like Expo City Dubai, Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Police, Unilever, and Bupa Foundation have already shown their support for Eco Walk, according to Juhi. Other groups, such as The Permanent Committee of Labour Affairs in Dubai, Dubai Ambulance, and Dar Al Ber Society, are also participating.