Leave your car in the garage today

Car Free Day will today help Dubai to become the most environmentally friendly city in the world, organisers say.

DUBAI // Car Free Day will on Sunday help Dubai to become the most environmentally friendly city in the world, organisers say.

Hussein Lootah, director general of Dubai Municipality, said adopting sustainable solutions to air pollution and global warming was the way to achieve that.

“We now have the huge responsibility to take this initiative further in all ways possible to achieve the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, [Vice President and Ruler of Dubai] to be the most sustainable in all areas of our society,” Mr Lootah said.

Today is the municipality’s seventh annual Car Free Day, during which residents are encouraged to leave their vehicles at home and use public transport.

Alya Al Harmoodi, director of its environment department, said the campaign’s objectives were air quality, preserving natural resources and awareness.

“The main source of air pollution comes from vehicles, while demand for fuel affects our natural resources,” Ms Al Harmoodi said. “It’s also very important that people understand these effects and are aware of the repercussions the world is facing.”

She had a message to those who were reluctant to use public transport: “It’s a very nice experience to feel like you are part of a bigger community and contributing to a good cause, no matter how small the contribution.”

Tasnim Al Falasi, head of environmental awareness, hoped the campaign inspired people to change to a healthier, greener lifestyle. “We’re not saying cars should be banned but we are encouraging people to use public transport as much as they can,” Ms Al Falasi said.

“We want the people of today to lead by example and encourage future generations.”

The municipality’s Ibrahim Juma said: “This is not only a responsibility we have towards our country, but one everyone has towards the environment.”

It is hoped a record 1,000 organisations will take part this year.