Win Big with Dubai's Sustainable Garden Contest

Win Up to 100,000 Dirhams with a Sustainable Home Garden in Dubai

Dubai once again proves that urban development and environmental awareness can go hand in hand. This year, Dubai Municipality has announced its popular gardening competition, aiming not only to make the city greener but also to actively involve the community in promoting a sustainable lifestyle. The "Most Beautiful Sustainable Home Garden" competition offers a total prize of 300,000 dirhams, encouraging villa owners and renters to transform their gardens into true green oases.

Sustainability in Your Own Backyard

The essence of the competition is not only an aesthetic garden design but also the implementation of solutions that adapt to the local climate, save water, and boost biodiversity. The initiative is part of a long-term urban development strategy that aims to make Dubai a more livable, greener environment—not just in public spaces, but within residential areas as well.

The rules clearly state that only outdoor gardens are eligible—indoor and rooftop solutions do not qualify. No agricultural experience is necessary to participate, meaning even hobby gardeners have a good chance at winning.

Ten Criteria to Keep in Mind

The jury will evaluate entries based on ten different criteria, making the judging process far more complex than mere appearance. This includes water efficiency, soil quality, plant health, maintenance regularity, garden safety, and the use of creative, innovative solutions.

Entries can be submitted until December 21, with personal visits to selected gardens scheduled for January–February 2026. Results will be announced in March, during a festive award ceremony.

Valuable Prizes and Community Recognition

The prizes are exceptionally attractive. The winner receives 100,000 dirhams, while second place wins 70,000 and third place wins 40,000 dirhams. Fourth and fifth places each receive 20,000 dirhams, and the top five entrants automatically enter a draw for an additional 10,000 dirhams.

The competition is not just about winning money; it also brings substantial recognition to participants. Being part of such a challenge—especially reaching the finals—is not only a matter of pride but also serves as a positive example for the neighborhood.

Community Awareness Through Greening

Dubai Municipality doesn't just plant trees; it launches programs aimed at shaping public awareness. Last year, about 200 entries were submitted for the competition, supported by over 150 community workshops. Participants learned how to develop water-saving irrigation systems, select appropriate plants for the UAE climate, and maintain healthy soil.

This knowledge is not just applicable during the competition but contributes long-term to creating an environmentally conscious urban community. The target is for each garden to be a small but effective step toward a sustainable future.

Spectacular Results in City Greening

The competition is part of a broader city greening strategy. In 2024, Dubai Municipality planted approximately 216,500 new trees—600 trees per day. Additionally, green areas increased by more than 390 hectares, a 57% growth over previous years.

This demonstrates that city leadership is not merely making symbolic gestures for sustainability, but also taking concrete, measurable steps to create a more livable environment.

How to Apply?

Applying is simple and exclusive to residents of villas in Dubai—whether renters or owners. Registration is through the Dubai Municipality's official website. Applicants must submit photos, a plan, and a brief description of their garden, along with the sustainable solutions they utilized.

The competition is not just an opportunity to win money, but a great chance to showcase creativity, environmental awareness, and make a positive impact on one's immediate environment.

Summary

The "Most Beautiful Sustainable Home Garden" competition in Dubai uniquely combines eco-friendly thinking, community building, and personal recognition. The prizes are appealing, participation is straightforward, and no agricultural background is required to be a contender. Anyone with a small garden willing to contribute to sustainability now has the chance not only to benefit the planet but to win personally.

(Based on the Dubai Municipality competition.)