Dubai has unveiled an ambitious plan to tackle one of the highest per-capita waste generation rates in the world through its newly launched “Circle Dubai” initiative — a citywide programme led by Dubai Municipality to foster sustainability and promote a circular economy.

The initiative aims to reduce waste generation from 2.2 kilograms per person per day to 1.76 kilograms, a key step toward achieving a cleaner, more resource-efficient future for the emirate.

It aligns with the Dubai Integrated Waste Management Strategy 2041, which targets an 18 per cent reduction in waste and 100 per cent diversion of solid waste from landfills.

Speaking to Khaleej Times at the launch event, Eng. Mohammed Alrayees, Director of the Waste Strategy and Projects Department at Dubai Municipality, said the programme was developed to address the emirate’s rising waste levels while strengthening recycling practices.

“Circle Dubai falls under the Dubai Integrated Waste Management Strategy 2041,” Alrayees said. “The initiative was created because Dubai is among the highest globally in waste generation per capita. While the city is already one of the cleanest in the world, we now want to focus on reducing waste generation and improving recycling from the source.”

Dubai currently produces around 13,000 tonnes of waste daily. Under the Circle Dubai plan, the municipality will roll out smart recycling bins across residential and public areas to encourage waste segregation. Additionally, collection containers will be distributed to institutions and commercial establishments to streamline waste sorting at the source.

Alrayees emphasized that the programme is not merely a waste-reduction effort but a shift in mindset.

“Waste is no longer just waste — it’s a resource,” he said. “We want Dubai’s society to segregate waste properly so we can turn challenges into opportunities and extract value from municipal waste.”

To achieve these goals, Dubai Municipality is building strategic partnerships with nine key sectors, including education, commerce, hospitality, and real estate, supported by major stakeholders such as Dubai Holding and Emaar. The collaboration seeks to embed sustainable waste management practices into every layer of Dubai’s urban and economic structure.

Authorities also plan to increase public awareness campaigns and community outreach programmes to ensure residents and businesses actively contribute to waste reduction targets.

“Social engagement is critical if we are to meet our targets,” Alrayees added. “Even as Dubai grows in population and scale, we want to ensure that waste generation does not grow at the same rate. Circle Dubai is our roadmap to achieving that balance.”

The initiative underscores Dubai’s broader environmental vision, integrating sustainability into daily life and positioning the city as a global leader in circular economy practices.

By promoting responsible consumption, efficient recycling systems, and public participation, Circle Dubai marks a pivotal step toward transforming waste into opportunity — and ensuring a greener future for generations to come.