Dubai is set to undertake what could be the “world’s largest coastal regeneration project,” encompassing more than 70 kilometers (43 miles) of shoreline. This ambitious project, named Dubai Mangroves, aims to transform the area by planting over 100 million mangroves. Mangroves are unique trees and shrubs found predominantly in coastal waters, known for their ability to support diverse ecosystems.
The initiative is spearheaded by URB, a sustainable city developer, and is projected to absorb over 1.2 million metric tons of CO2 annually. This is comparable to removing 260,000 gas-powered cars from the roads each year. Baharash Bagherian, an urban planner and founder of URB, emphasizes the vital role of mangroves in defending against coastal erosion and rising sea levels, which are critical issues for coastal cities like Dubai.
“We are currently in the research phase,” says Bagherian. “We have identified six potential locations for pilot studies and are now concentrating on the designs for these areas. We anticipate completing the project by 2040.”
URB’s portfolio also includes other innovative projects still in the planning stages. These include a masterplan to establish over 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) of cycling lanes in Dubai by 2040, and Dubai Reefs, a floating community dedicated to marine research and ecotourism, featuring the world’s largest artificial reef.
Initially part of the Dubai Reefs initiative, Dubai Mangroves was later designated as a standalone project to address various environmental and urban challenges. According to Bagherian, its primary goal is to mitigate climate change effects through the mangroves’ natural ability to curb sea level rise by creating a buffer between sea and land and sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Mangroves excel at this process, sequestering carbon 10 times faster than mature tropical forests and storing it three to five times more densely, as reported by the US National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration.
Beyond climate mitigation, mangroves serve as nurseries for marine life, enhancing biodiversity by providing natural habitats for fish, birds, and other plants. They also boost local economies by supporting fisheries, aquaculture, and providing materials for crafts and construction.
Furthermore, as evidenced by mangrove hotspots globally, they can become significant tourist attractions. Bagherian notes, “The project aims to set a new standard for ecologically responsible tourism, offering an environment where visitors can enjoy nature without harming it.” The objective is not only to attract tourists but also to inspire them to actively participate in preserving the natural heritage.
Plans for the visitor hub include a conservation center staffed by marine biologists and a large botanical museum, further enhancing the educational and recreational value of the project.
