Qatar's Tree-Planting Initiative Focuses on Native Species and Community Involvement

Doha, Qatar Aug 25, 2026 ALN: The ongoing efforts to expand tree planting and rehabilitate natural meadows, known locally as rawda, in Qatar are part of a concerted initiative aimed at improving the overall quality of life and maintaining the health of the local environment. This initiative has garnered attention from environmental experts and researchers who emphasize that the success of tree-planting programs hinges not only on the sheer number of trees planted but also on the careful selection of climate-resilient native species, their proper maintenance, and sustained community involvement.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change is spearheading a program to rehabilitate Qatar’s natural meadows, which support a variety of native vegetation. This program includes cultivating local tree seedlings, reintroducing them into their natural habitats, and monitoring their growth to ensure they thrive in the challenging Qatari climate. The initiative is part of Qatar’s broader 10 Million Trees Initiative, which was launched in 2022 with an ambitious goal of planting 10 million trees by 2030. This program is intended to expand green areas across the country, improve air quality, enhance biodiversity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote the use of treated wastewater for irrigation purposes.

The 10 Million Trees Initiative builds on the groundwork laid by Qatar’s earlier One Million Tree Initiative, which was successfully completed in 2022. Under this previous initiative, green areas within the country increased significantly, from 3.5 square kilometers in 2015 to 16.7 square kilometers in 2023. The transition from the one-million-tree target to the 10-million-tree program signifies a substantial expansion of Qatar’s greening ambitions, particularly in light of the country’s limited rainfall and harsh summer conditions that pose challenges for tree growth.

Environmental researcher and desertification campaigner Ali al-Hanzab highlighted the importance of the ministry’s efforts to propagate and restore native trees and shrubs. He noted that the selection of species capable of tolerating high temperatures and limited water availability should remain at the forefront of afforestation projects. Al-Hanzab emphasized the need for community involvement, stating that residents, land users, and businesses should play an active role in protecting newly planted trees to ensure their survival and growth.

Dr. Latifa al-Nuaimi, a professor of hydrogeology and environmental studies at Qatar University, underscored the critical role that trees play in creating a healthy urban environment. She urged authorities and contractors to reconsider practices such as excessive pruning, which can hinder tree growth and reduce canopy density. Dr. al-Nuaimi argued that where branches do not pose a safety risk or obstruct movement, trees should be allowed to grow more naturally. This approach not only increases shade but also enhances the environmental benefits that trees provide.

Moreover, Dr. al-Nuaimi called for stronger maintenance arrangements for public gardens and landscaped areas, asserting that the value of planting programs is maximized when trees and vegetation receive consistent irrigation and maintenance after their installation. This perspective highlights a critical aspect of urban forestry: the need for long-term care to ensure that newly planted trees can thrive and contribute positively to the environment.

Dr. Mohamed al-Sheyab, an academic and environmental and engineering expert, further elaborated on the benefits of trees, noting that they play a significant role in climate mitigation by absorbing carbon dioxide through photosynthesis and storing carbon in their biomass. The expansion of tree cover can lead to cleaner air, increased ecosystem stability, and enhanced biodiversity, while also providing natural carbon storage solutions. However, Dr. al-Sheyab cautioned that the climate benefits of afforestation should be understood as part of a broader emissions-reduction strategy rather than as a substitute for direct efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions at their source.

Environmental expert Mohamed al-Jaidah echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of using locally adapted trees in light of Qatar’s unique climate and water constraints. He advocated for increased planting in natural areas, along roads, in public parks, and within residential spaces. Al-Jaidah highlighted specific native species such as sidra, ghaf, and prickly acacia, which are well-suited to withstand the local environmental conditions. The advantages of native trees include greater tolerance to heat and water scarcity, longer lifespans, and potentially lower maintenance requirements, making them ideal candidates for afforestation efforts in Qatar.

In conclusion, Qatar's tree-planting initiative is a multifaceted approach that seeks to address environmental challenges while fostering community involvement and awareness. By focusing on native species and sustainable practices, the program aims not only to beautify the landscape but also to contribute to the long-term health of the ecosystem. As the initiative progresses, monitoring and adapting strategies based on scientific research and community feedback will be essential to achieving the ambitious goal of planting 10 million trees by 2030 and ensuring a greener, more sustainable future for Qatar.