Dubai is set to become even greener with the planting of 1,200 additional flame trees across the emirate, as part of a major environmental initiative aimed at expanding the city’s iconic red-and-orange tree canopy across streets, parks and residential communities.
The initiative is being carried out in collaboration with Dubai Municipality and is inspired by the vision of Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. Sheikh Hamdan has described the flame tree as a symbol of Dubai — “a city full of life and beauty” — and directed efforts to expand its presence across public spaces, roadsides, recreational areas and neighbourhoods throughout the emirate.
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As part of the broader campaign, Dubai Municipality had earlier announced the completion of planting 1,000 flame trees along Amman Street, covering six roundabouts and a 10-kilometre central median stretch, in addition to landscaping works on Street 15 in Mirdif.
Currently, more than 50,000 flame trees line Dubai’s roads, parks and public spaces, including prominent areas such as Jumeirah Street, Airport Road, Safa Park and Dubai Canal.
The latest batch of 1,200 trees will be planted with support from VFS Global. The initiative coincides with the Eid Al Adha season, reflecting themes of giving, community participation and sustainability.
The flame trees, scientifically known as Delonix regia, are being sourced from Wadi Dafta Plantation, an Emirati-owned agricultural enterprise operated by farmer Ahmed Al Hafeiti. The trees can grow up to 15 metres tall and are known for their vibrant scarlet blooms and expansive shade cover.
Originally native to Madagascar, flame trees have adapted successfully to the UAE’s climate over several decades. Beyond their visual appeal, the trees contribute to cooler urban environments by reducing heat exposure and creating shaded microclimates. They also support biodiversity by attracting birds, butterflies and pollinators during the flowering season.
Officials noted that the initiative forms part of VFS Global’s wider sustainability and reforestation strategy. Over the past four years, the organisation has supported the planting of more than 650,000 trees globally as part of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect biodiversity and strengthen long-term environmental resilience.
Zubin Karkaria, founder and CEO of VFS Global Group, said the flame trees have become an important symbol of Dubai’s summer landscape and community identity. He added that the initiative reflects both the company’s sustainability goals and its commitment to contributing meaningfully to Dubai’s future and environmental vision.
