The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has announced the theme of the 28th National Environment Day as ‘Our Heritage … Our Future’. This highlights the UAE's core values and strong commitment to environmental preservation and nature conservation, according to a press statement.  

The National Environment Day falls on February 4 each year. This year’s theme aligns with UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s declaration of 2025 as the ‘Year of Community’ underscoring the role of the community as the driving force in the nation's progress, especially in developing the environment and preserving the natural resources. 

Her Excellency Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said: “This year's National Environment Day emphasises the UAE community’s deep-rooted culture of environmental protection, preservation of natural resources, and sustainable development. The nation’s environment is rich in biodiversity, with a thriving agricultural, livestock and fisheries sector. It is also home to numerous species, all of which shape Emirati culture and heritage.”

She added: "Our ancestors' eco-friendly practices instilled in us a deep awareness about the environment and shaped a living heritage that we proudly pass down through generations. This legacy inspires our pursuit of a sustainable future for all Emiratis.” She noted that National Environment Day celebrates these sustainable practices, recognising them as the foundation for cultivating eco-friendly behaviours in future generations, developing solutions to climate and environmental challenges, and driving sustainable development across all sectors.

Her Excellency added: “The National Environment Day offers a valuable opportunity for all members of the community to actively engage in the UAE's climate and environmental work. The community is the cornerstone of the country’s long-term development plans, and every individual must be fully aware and equipped to contribute to enhancing the UAE’s position as a global leader in sustainability and the future.”

H.E. said: “We invite all segments of society to participate in events and workshops that highlight our heritage of environmental conservation. Let us build on this legacy and cultivate eco-friendly behaviours, to make the UAE a global model for sustainability. Our actions today will shape the future. The environmental achievements will become a national legacy that future generations will proudly carry forward.”

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment will host community events and activities in collaboration with relevant authorities up to World Environment Day on June 4. These initiatives aim to showcase and promote the best sustainable practices of the UAE community, encouraging their adoption in a modern context to address today's environmental challenges.

Collaborative efforts

In celebration of National Environment Day, the Ministry, along with various federal and government entities, the private sector, and civil society organisations, is organising a series of events aimed at promoting sustainable behaviours and engaging the community in an integrated ecosystem to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle. These events highlight the nation’s strong environmental identity, focusing on preserving natural resources, enhancing their sustainable use, and building on the UAE’s long-standing legacy of environmental stewardship. The goal is to use this legacy as a foundation for new, innovative efforts in the years to come, in line with the country’s plans and strategies for environmental sustainability.

The key focus areas of this initiative will include home farming, sustainable mobility, sustainable waste management, responsible consumption of products and services, and efficient use of electricity, water, and food.