Dubai, March 2025 – Dubai Municipality successfully organized over 162 field-based volunteer activities in 2024 under its flagship community initiative, ‘An Hour with the Cleaner.’ The programme saw the participation of 7,180 volunteers from 136 government, semi-government, and private sector entities, along with community members, collectively contributing 7,180 hours of volunteer work.
The initiative aims to promote environmental sustainability and foster a culture of shared civic responsibility, encouraging public involvement in maintaining the cleanliness and aesthetic appeal of Dubai.
Driving Environmental Awareness and Sustainable Practices
In addition to waste collection across various locations, volunteers engaged in sorting and recycling the materials gathered, raising awareness about waste reduction and supporting Dubai’s broader environmental goals.
Eng. Saeed Safar, Director of the Waste Operations Department at Dubai Municipality, highlighted the programme’s contribution to community engagement and environmental stewardship:
“The ‘An Hour with the Cleaner’ initiative reflects the commitment of Dubai’s community to maintaining the city’s status as one of the cleanest and most liveable cities in the world. It embodies the values of sustainability, volunteerism, and shared responsibility while reinforcing the importance of collective action to protect our urban and natural environment.”
He further emphasized Dubai Municipality’s role in fostering community partnerships through environmentally focused volunteer programs that align with the emirate’s integrated waste management strategy.
Key Achievements in 2024
- Al Hadeer Clean-Up Campaigns: 20 dedicated activities involved 2,000 volunteers removing waste and preserving the natural environment.
- Farjan Dubai Events: Supported four community events across Al Barsha South, Al Warqa, Al Mizhar, and Nad Al Hamar, engaging 600 volunteers.
- Al Khawaneej 2 Activities: Partnered with the Hamdan Volunteer Team to organize two clean-up events with 100 volunteers.
- Logistical Support: Dubai Municipality provided equipment and oversight for clean-up operations in residential areas.
A Legacy of Community Engagement
Launched in 2017, ‘An Hour with the Cleaner’ is a year-round programme encouraging volunteer participation in cleaning campaigns across public beaches, parks, industrial zones, and residential areas. It plays a critical role in enhancing environmental stewardship and civic pride, reinforcing Dubai’s image as a model city for sustainability and social cohesion.
The initiative continues to expand, bringing together diverse sectors of society in pursuit of a cleaner, greener future for Dubai.
