Dubai Municipality has launched an initiative to plant mangrove trees in natural reserves, in an effort to preserve and develop the coastal environment.
Mangrove forests help reduce carbon emissions, provide a natural habitat, promote reproduction and sustainability of marine biodiversity and create opportunities for ecotourism.
The trees will be planted in marine reserves at Ras Al Khor and Jebel Ali, in areas that are not exposed to waves like shallow areas and creeks, where the tidal rate does not exceed 1 to 2 metres.
Mangroves are a refuge for endemic and migratory birds and also produce a high quantity of oxygen as well as help in improving climatic conditions by lowering temperatures.
As mangrove roots, branch and extend in the seafloor, it helps in preventing them from being swept away by waves.
They also protect the marine environment in which algae grows, contributing to improving the quality of the surrounding water and creating an environment for the growth of different types of coral reefs.
His Excellency Dawoud Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality said, “We are looking to increase the cultivation of mangroves in Dubai as they are considered an environmental treasure and have great economic and biological importance. They contribute to preserving different types of wildlife and marine life. The environment of mangrove roots serves as a natural incubator for fishery resources. They also provide a protective habitat for birds apart from being a source of food for them.”