How to go green in Dubai

Most of Dubai’s hotels are becoming more sustainable, but a few stand out for their commitment to reducing their carbon footprint. For example, Anantara The Palm boasts a Green Growth certification thanks to its efforts to cut energy consumption and single-use plastics. Other admirable sustainable hotels include JA The Resort in Jebel Ali, which uses solar water heating, grows its own produce and recycles much of its water for irrigation use – among many other initiatives. Meanwhile, Andaz Dubai The Palm has teamed up with GCAF (Green Container Advanced Farming) for a container farm onsite, allowing the boutique hotel to harvest its own hydroponic produce.

The most eco-friendly way to shop is by giving existing items a second chance. Fortunately, there’s a growing movement dedicated to bringing sustainable fashion to the city. Start at Garderobe or Retold, where you'll find pre-loved clothes, shoes, bags, accessories and more from some of the world’s best brands. The UAE is also home to dozens of sustainable and slow-fashion labels, such as All Things Mochi, Kate Chad, The Giving Movement and Nomadic State of Mind. You’ll be able to find these labels and many more at independent boutiques and homegrown retailers such as Sauce.

The best food in Dubai is increasingly being grown right here in the emirate, thanks to high-tech farming – and local chefs are taking full advantage. Restaurants such as BOCA in Dubai International Financial Centre offer zero-waste meals with an emphasis on local ingredients, while Cassette in Al Quoz boasts produce from local farms and makes use of seasonal ingredients. If you visit an eatery, be mindful and take only what you need – if you can do without a disposable cup or a plastic lid, say so. Some cafes like plastic-free The Sum of Us also reward eco-conscious customers by offering 10 per cent off their coffee bill if they bring in a reusable cup. Local farms also supply produce at weekly markets such as Ripe Market and in grocery stores, encouraging residents and visitors to adopt responsible consumption in their everyday lives.

Learn more about Dubai's natural habitats by visiting protected reserves – not only will you get the chance to experience something new, you'll also be contributing to conservation efforts. For example, the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve are a safe haven for endangered species and native desert dwellers, such as the Arabian oryx. Access is controlled to preserve flora and fauna, so you'll have to book a tour with trusted operators such as Platinum Heritage or consider staying in an eco-friendly desert resort. Don't miss the chance to stop by Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary too – the protected wetlands are home to thousands of birds.

If you take a walk around Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, you’ll see dozens of traditional Arabian windtowers set around shaded courtyards. These towers have, for centuries, helped keep buildings cool during warm summers. While the architecture might be old, it continues to inspire architects around the world. Solving the challenge of how to live in balance with our environment may be complicated, but Dubai is helping to find the answers with initiatives such as The Sustainable City – the first net-zero development in the emirate – or Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s Innovation Centre. And of course, Expo City Dubai’s Terra - The Sustainability Pavilion is dedicated to showcasing emerging eco-friendly solutions from around the world.