In a city known for its soaring skyline, luxurious lifestyles and record-breaking success, Dubai is rewriting the script – this time, with a focus on sustainability. With the UAE declaring 2024 a pivotal year in its ongoing journey towards net-zero emissions by 2050, sustainable living is no longer an option – it’s a stylish necessity.
But what does it mean to live sustainably in a city that thrives on ambition and innovation? The answer isn’t just found in mega solar farms or futuristic public transport – it starts with small, smart choices made at home, at work and in our communities.
Whether you’re a long-term resident, a newcomer to the emirate, or someone considering a more conscious lifestyle, here are 10 easy, practical and smart ways to live sustainably in Dubai in 2024 – without compromising on comfort or style.
1. Ditch single-use plastic (yes, even your coffee cup)
Why this matters: The UAE throws away billions of plastic bottles and bags every year, many ending up in landfills or the ocean.
Things you can do:
✔ Carry a reusable water bottle – Refill at free water stations (Dubai Marina, Metro stations)
✔ Use a Keepcup – Many cafes (like % Arabica, The Espresso Lab) offer discounts for bringing your own cup
✔ Switch to reusable shopping bags – Brands like Carrefour and Waitrose charge for plastic bags, so save money while saving the planet
2. Shop local and seasonal (farmers markets are your new best friend)
Why this matters: Imported food has a huge carbon footprint due to air transport.
Where to go:
Paka Bazaar (Al Barari, Expo City) – Organic fruits, vegetables and artisanal goods
Dubai Farmers Market (Meydan) – Fresh, local produce every Saturday
Fish Market (Deira) – Sustainably caught seafood straight from the emirate’s waters
Pro tip: Seasonal produce (like dates in summer) is cheaper, fresher and more environmentally friendly.
3. Choose sustainable fashion (look good, do good)
Why it matters: Fast fashion is the second largest polluter worldwide.
Where to shop:
The Secret Closet (Dubai Hills Mall) – Formerly a luxury fashion darling
Thrift for Good (Umm Suqeim) – Secondhand finds supporting charities
Adidas x Pearly (Dubai Mall) – Sneakers made from recycled ocean plastic
Bonus: Sell your old clothes on Dubizzle or Facebook Marketplace to extend their lifespan.
4. Reduce energy waste (without turning off the AC)
Why this matters: Air conditioning accounts for 70% of Dubai’s summer energy use.
Smart Fix:
Set your AC to 24°C – Every degree lower increases energy use by 6%
Use LED bulbs – Use 75% less energy than traditional bulbs
Unplug devices – Vampire energy consumes electricity even when it’s off
Pro Hack: DEWA’s Smart Living Initiative provides real-time usage alerts to save money.
5. Go car-free (at least sometimes)
Why this matters: Transport contributes to 20% of Dubai’s emissions.
Eco-friendly options:
Metro and tram – cheap, efficient and air-conditioned
Bike rentals (Careem Bike, Dubai Canal) – dedicated cycling tracks are expanding
Walkable neighborhoods (JBR, City Walk) – Dubai is no longer just for cars
If you have to drive: Consider hybrid rentals (e.g. Tesla with EcoDrive) or carpooling.
6. Reduce food waste (your wallet will thank you)
Why it matters: 38% of food in the UAE is wasted.
Easy solution:
Use an app like Too Good to Go – buy extra food from hotels/cafes at a discount
Order smaller portions – Many Dubai restaurants serve large meals
Compost at home – Companies like Warmup provide composting kits
7. Support green businesses (vote with your dirhams)
Why it matters: Demand drives change.
Sustainable places to try:
Nightjar Coffee (Al Qoz) – Zero-waste cafe
Boca (DIFC) – Seasonal, locally sourced, delicious food
The Giving Movement (Online) – Eco-friendly clothing that donates food
8. Save water (in the desert, every drop counts)
Why it matters: The UAE has the highest water usage rate in the world.
Easy swaps:
Turn down the shower – save 30+ litres per minute
Choose drought-resistant plants – like bougainvillea or desert palm trees
Install water-saving taps – DEWA offers free proficiency tests
9. Recycle like a pro (it’s easier than you think)
Recycling places in Dubai:
Tadbir Centre – for paper, plastic, metal
E-bike (Dubai Municipality) – old electronics
At H&MDrop Box – Any brand, any condition
Fun fact: Recycling an aluminium can saves enough energy to run a TV for 3 hours.
10. Spread awareness (Change starts with you)
Why it matters: Sustainability grows through community.
How to inspire others:
Share tips on social media – Tag #SustainableDubai
Join an event – Like Dubai Sustainable Week
Start a neighbourhood initiative – Group recycling, carpooling etc.
Living sustainably in Dubai is not about compromise – it’s about intentional living, where technology, tradition and luxury are aligned with environmental principles. From changing your commute to supporting circular brands, every little change adds up.
The UAE is leading the region in green innovation, so Dubai residents have a unique opportunity – and responsibility – to be part of that momentum. The future is not just being built in Dubai – it is being sustainably rebuilt.