Clean UAE: A National Eco-Movement

More than Cleaning: UAE Desert Campaign Becomes a National Movement

Every December, the deserts of the United Arab Emirates come alive—not just because of tourists or nomadic campers. Increasing numbers of residents, families, and foreign volunteers join the Clean UAE initiative, which with each passing year gathers more people to protect nature. This campaign has been ongoing for over two decades, becoming a symbol of civic responsibility, community collaboration, and environmental awareness.

An Initiative That Outgrew Itself

The Clean UAE movement began in 2002 with just 4,500 volunteers. Today, far more than that—over 90,000—participate in the campaign every December when the weather turns ideal for outdoor activities. Participants travel across the emirates from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah, and from Umm Al Quwain to Abu Dhabi, collecting discarded waste, plastics, bottles, and other pollutants from the deserts.

This action is no longer just a simple cleanup. It has turned into a genuine national movement, encouraging people to contribute to the environment not just in words but with concrete actions. The campaign's central message is that protecting nature is not just the government's or authorities' responsibility—it is the responsibility of all of us.

Community Experience in Participation

Participating in the campaign is more than just picking up litter. Many use this opportunity to spend a day in nature with their families, or to participate in a charitable event as a workplace team. Some traveled hundreds of kilometers to reach designated locations, while others participated as members of local communities, school and university groups, or delegations from civil society organizations.

During the event, it is not uncommon for participants to make new friends, meet people from other cultures, or establish professional connections. This is especially important in a multicultural country like the UAE, where over 200 nationalities live together. Clean UAE thus not only cleans the deserts but also builds community.

Unique Connection to the Landscape

Many join the campaign because they feel a personal connection to the desert. For example, hot air balloon pilots have reported landing in areas where campers previously left waste. It is important for them that these areas be cleaned, as their work is closely tied to the natural environment.

Others, who have newly arrived in the country, use the campaign as an entryway into local life, getting to know the emirates' unique ecosystem and directly contributing to its preservation. One recent participant said that if they are to bring tourists to the desert, they feel it is their duty to show its best face—cleanliness included.

The Role of Children and Family Example

More and more children and young people are joining the Clean UAE campaign, often initiating participation themselves. For them, it is not only a learning opportunity but also a kind of mission: after all, by taking responsibility for the environment, they are influencing their own future. Parents, leading by example, participate alongside them.

One family decided to join together because the children had already participated in various EEG campaigns in the past. The parents felt that doing it together would strengthen the children's commitment and reinforce shared family values.

Over One Million Volunteers Since 2002

Since its inception, the Clean UAE movement has mobilized more than 1.7 million volunteers. This astounding number demonstrates that people are willing to work for their environment if they receive clear goals, good organization, and a communal experience.

The campaign operates under the aegis of the Emirates Environmental Group and takes place every December. The initiative's final stop is typically in Abu Dhabi, where an official closing ceremony commemorates the annual achievements.

The Future Is in Our Hands

One of the main messages organizers emphasize each year is that the desert's beauty and natural values—from gazelles to camels—can only be preserved if everyone participates in their protection. This is not merely an environmental project. It is a shared responsibility.

Clean UAE is special because it does not expect us to be perfect. You don’t need to be an environmental expert to join. All that's needed is a pair of gloves, some determination, and a desire to do something for the land we call home—whether that’s in Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, or Abu Dhabi.

This initiative says: don’t wait for miracles or lawmakers. We are the change. And if each year more than 90,000 people think this way, it’s not just the desert that gets cleaner—but perhaps the future becomes a little brighter too.

(Source: Based on a statement from the Emirates Environmental Group).