DUBAI: In a continued commitment to environmental sustainability, Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD), in collaboration with the Emirates Environmental Group (EEG) and Pakistan Business Council, participated in a tree plantation activity titled ‘For Our Emirates We Plant’.
The initiative, which was joined by 300+ individuals from PAD, was an effort to make a positive impact to the ecological wellbeing of the country.
The event was held at The Bee Reserve – Al Minaie, near Hatta, starting at 8:30am and concluding at 10:30am. During this time, PAD planted 1,005 saplings of the Samar variety, reflecting the determination to enhance biodiversity.
Special guests in attendance were H.H. Eng. Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qassimi – member of the Executive Council of the Government of Ras Al-Khaimah and Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation – Ras Al Khaimah; H.E Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of 
Pakistan; and Dr. Mohammed Saeed Al Kindi – EEG’s Honorary Member and Former Minister of Environment and Water.
H.H. Eng. Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qassimi said while addressing the participants, “This event stands as a testament to the impactful initiatives that communities can undertake in support of a greener and more sustainable future. I believe, through collaboration and community partnership, we can pave the way for positive change and set an example for others to follow.”
H.E. Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan, appreciated the UAE’s resolve to unite for climate change action. “We are grateful to the UAE leadership for leading the way towards sustainable development. Pakistan is one of the countries most vulnerable to the impact of climate change. PAD is doing tremendous work with their tree plantation drive in the UAE and Pakistan. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to EEG for their dedicated commitment to environmental sustainability. Such pioneering activities reflect the shared responsibility we all bear in building a greener planet.”
Ms. Habiba Al Marashi – Co-Founder and Chairperson of Emirates Environmental Group – stated: “Through the visionary efforts of the Pakistan Association Dubai, we celebrate the remarkable initiative of planting 1,005 trees, a testament to their commitment to environmental sustainability. The partnership between Emirates Environmental Group and 
Pakistan Association Dubai exemplifies the power of collaboration in creating a greener future. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the association, recognising their pivotal role in fostering a more sustainable and eco-friendly community. Together, we can continue to plant the seeds of positive change for generations to come.”
The event also included a traditional Arabic dance. A group of 50 bikers from the Pakistani Riders Group (PRG) also rallied to the venue to support the cause. PAD extended its gratitude for the support received from the community.
Reflecting on the success of the event, Dr Tariq Saeed Khan, PAD Board Member, said: “In line with the UAE’s Year of Sustainability, PAD mobilised families to leave a green legacy behind by planting 1,005 trees. Rallying students, youth, and our entire community, we led a shared commitment for environmental consciousness, actively contributing to a sustainable future.”
Mr Zahid Hassan, PAD General Secretary, remarked, “We are grateful to EEG for championing this cause. Climate change is a global call to action, and PAD stands committed to partnering with the UAE in this crucial mission. Thanks to our incredible community members for uniting and making this event an incredible success. Together, we can forge a sustainable path for our future generations.”
PAD also thanked its partners, including Pearlshire Development, Midas Safety, Al Meher Group, Champion Neon, Fatima International, AX Property, Tabani Real Estate, Safetex LLC Group, Silver Star Electronics, Sofreya, Delma Rent A Car Passenger Transport, IFFCO, Kamdar Group, Bin Dhahi, Hemani Natural, Cakes and Bakes, Emirates Fiber Industries, Maison De Ary, RAKCODS, Almarai, Golden Loaf, Golden Spikes and Al Ain Water, for supporting the activity.
