Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, on Saturday called for the launch of a planting programme to keep the emirate's popular “flame tree” in full glow.
Sheikh Hamdan shared an animated video online celebrating the deep-rooted role of the tree – known for its display of bright orange and red flowers in summer months – in “bringing life” to the city.
The flame tree, which goes by the scientific name of Delonix regia, thrives in hotter climates and can be found all over the world.
It typically blooms in Dubai from May until the end of July, adding a splash of vibrant colour to the city's urban landscape.
Sheikh Hamdan directed the planting drive after holding a meeting with Dubai Municipality and Dubai Future Foundation, for which he serves as chairman of the board of trustees.
"In summer, when the flame tree blooms in Dubai, it brings life to every home, every majlis, every street, and every park. With it, our city blooms, full of life and beauty,” Sheikh Hamdan wrote on social media.
The accompanying clip showed residents playing tennis, taking strolls and playing in parks, with the tree serving as a colourful backdrop.
“It came from far away, but in Dubai in found something that felt like home, so it stayed,” the narrator of the clip says.
Dubai Municipality said on social media it was to start a campaign to plant the tree in streets, homes, parks and recreational areas across the emirate, on the directives of Sheikh Hamdan.
Sheikh Hamdan also directed the distribution of the tree’s seedlings to residents wishing to plant in their homes or farms.
Flame tree lights up Dubai
The Flame tree is known rapid growth in its early years, naturally forming a wide canopy which can span up to 15 metres, without the need for extensive care.
As well as brightening up Dubai's streets and green spaces, it delivers important shade in summer months and can reduce ground temperature beneath it by about 5 degrees.
The tree is well suited to Dubai’s hot and humid climate, making it an ideal choice for green spaces.
It can be planted in well-drained sandy or clay soil, providing a suitable environment for root growth.
The tree can live up to 60 years and typically takes around 10 years to reach full maturity, with a height that can reach up to 12 metres.
