The Dubai Mangroves project will cover the coastal area of Dubai with giant mangrove forests to prevent erosion, flooding, and reduce CO2 emissions.
The company Urb in Dubai plans to transform the area with the largest coastal restoration project in the world. This ambitious development plan includes the planting of over 100 million mangrove trees, helping to protect the city from erosion and rising sea levels, according to a report by New Atlas on May 2.
The Dubai Mangroves project will span over 72 km of coastline. (Photo: Urb).
Urb is not an unfamiliar name, as the company is also behind the massive air-conditioned cycling pathway project and one of the largest coral reef restoration initiatives. The new project will stretch over 72 km. According to Urb, the core of this initiative is the mangrove tree, known for its exceptional CO2 absorption capabilities, its ability to prevent coastal erosion, support marine life, and ensure food security. With an absorption capacity of approximately 12.3 kg of CO2 per tree, the entire project could sequester 1.23 million tons of CO2 annually, equivalent to the emissions from over 260,000 gasoline-powered passenger vehicles on the road. In addition to reducing CO2 and providing a natural coastal barrier, the giant mangrove forests will act as nurseries for marine organisms, increase fish stocks, and filter water through their roots.
The planting of such a large number of trees will take many years. To accelerate the completion of the project, Urb proposes using AI-powered drones and satellite imagery to monitor and enhance the growth of the mangroves.
Alongside the primary focus on mangrove forests, the Dubai Mangroves will also feature several small beaches, community spaces, and pathways. The project will also include an educational center for visitors, a plant museum, and a natural research center.
Currently, the Dubai Mangroves project is in the design phase, and Urb has selected six pilot studies that can be conducted to demonstrate feasibility. This will be an important project to help Dubai cope with the impacts of climate change.
