Dubai, the host of the 23rd United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), is facing a serious air pollution problem that threatens its reputation as a leader in clean energy and sustainability.

The city, known for its skyscrapers, shopping malls, and luxury hotels, has some of the worst air quality in the world, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The main sources of pollution are the burning of fossil fuels, dust storms, and construction activities.

How bad is the air pollution in Dubai?
(Photo : Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

According to the WHO, the annual average concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in Dubai was 64 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) in 2020, which is more than six times the recommended limit of 10 µg/m3.

PM2.5 are tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as premature death.

Dubai also has high levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a gas that is emitted from vehicles, power plants, and industrial processes. NO2 can cause inflammation of the airways, asthma, and reduced lung function.

The annual average concentration of NO2 in Dubai was 46 µg/m3 in 2020, which is more than twice the recommended limit of 21 µg/m3.

The air pollution in Dubai varies depending on the season, the weather, and the location. The pollution is usually worse in the winter when the air is cooler and more stagnant, and in the summer, when dust storms are more frequent.

The pollution is also higher in the urban areas, where the traffic and the population density are higher, and in the industrial zones, where the emissions are higher.

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What is Dubai doing to tackle the air pollution problem?

Dubai, as the host of the COP28, has a responsibility to show its commitment to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and improving its air quality.

The city has taken some steps to address the air pollution problem, such as:

  • Investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar and nuclear power. Dubai aims to generate 75% of its electricity from clean sources by 2050.
  • Promoting public transportation, such as metro, tram, bus, and taxi. Dubai aims to increase the share of public transportation trips from 17% in 2019 to 26% by 2030.
  • Implementing emission standards and fuel quality regulations for vehicles and industries. Dubai aims to reduce the carbon dioxide emissions from the transportation sector by 16% by 2021.
  • Enhancing the air quality monitoring and forecasting system. Dubai has 13 air quality stations that measure the levels of various pollutants and provide real-time data and alerts to the public.

However, these measures are not enough to solve the air pollution problem in Dubai. The city still faces many challenges, such as:

  • The high dependence on fossil fuels, especially natural gas, for electricity generation and desalination. Dubai consumes about 120 million cubic meters of natural gas per day, which accounts for about 80% of its total energy consumption.
  • The rapid urbanization and population growth, increase the demand for energy, water, and transportation. Dubai's population is expected to reach 5.2 million by 2030, up from 3.4 million in 2020.
  • The lack of public awareness and engagement, limits the adoption of low-carbon lifestyles and behaviors. Dubai's per capita carbon footprint is about 15.7 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, which is more than three times the global average of 4.8 tons.

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