Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Photo: WAM
The Department of Municipality and Planning in Ajman has announced a significant achievement in the emirate’s air quality. According to a new report focused on environmental statistics, Ajman recorded a 96.19 percent Air Quality Index (AQI) during the first half of 2025. This marks one of the highest scores recorded by the emirate in recent years.
This accomplishment aligns with the broader environmental goals outlined in Ajman Vision 2030, which focuses on achieving sustainable development across various sectors. A clean and healthy environment is a key part of that vision.
Consistent Growth in Air Quality Over the Years
Dr. Eng. Khalid Moeen Al Hosani, Executive Director of the Public Health and Environment Sector at the Department, shared more insights into this progress. He confirmed that Ajman’s air quality has shown consistent improvement over the past few years.
To compare, the AQI was 94.40 percent in the first half of 2024 and 93.48 percent in the same period of 2023. This year’s record of 96.19 percent clearly shows how well the Department's efforts are paying off.
Dr. Al Hosani said that these numbers highlight the success of various environmental plans and initiatives led by the Department. It also shows that Ajman is moving in the right direction when it comes to reducing pollution and protecting natural resources.
Continuous Efforts Behind the Improvement
The rise in air quality is not accidental or coincidental. Dr. Al Hosani emphasized that it is the result of ongoing, planned efforts by the Department and other concerned authorities. These efforts include planning, project execution, and public-private cooperation to reduce harmful emissions and encourage cleaner practices.
One of the key contributors to this improvement is the Environmental Compliance Programme. This program was created to monitor pollution levels from industries and to ensure that companies are following environmental regulations strictly.
Environmental Compliance Programme and Its Impact
The Environmental Compliance Programme is an important initiative that requires all industrial establishments in Ajman to submit semi-annual reports. These reports include data about the amount of air pollution each facility is producing.
This system makes it easier for the Department to track pollution sources, ensure that companies follow the rules, and take corrective steps if pollution levels are found to be high. It creates a transparent and accountable process that helps improve overall environmental performance in the emirate.
Building a Network of Monitoring Stations
To accurately monitor the air quality, Ajman has installed a network of seven air quality monitoring stations. These stations have been designed and built according to international standards and meet the classifications set by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.
Dr. Al Hosani also announced that the Department plans to increase the number of these stations to ten in the coming years. This expansion is being planned to match Ajman’s growing population and urban development. As more people move into the city and construction increases, it becomes even more important to monitor air quality across all areas.
Advanced Technology for Better Monitoring
All air monitoring stations in Ajman are connected to a system called the Environmental Data Management Programme. This is considered one of the most advanced systems in the UAE and the wider region. It enables the Department to receive real-time updates, generate reports, and track air quality continuously.
The monitoring stations are equipped with state-of-the-art technology. These tools allow officials to measure different environmental factors, including wind speed and direction, humidity, and the concentration of harmful gases such as nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide.
Such precise measurements are crucial for understanding the root causes of pollution and taking appropriate action. This technology also allows Ajman to respond quickly if air quality drops due to specific incidents or weather changes.
Environmental Goals Aligned with UAE Vision
Dr. Al Hosani stressed that the work done by the Department of Municipality and Planning in Ajman supports the United Arab Emirates’ wider environmental goals, including the goal of achieving carbon neutrality. By working on local sustainability goals, Ajman is contributing to the country’s long-term mission to reduce carbon emissions and promote green practices.
These efforts also complement national policies and commitments made by the UAE in various global climate agreements. Ajman’s contribution shows how each emirate plays a part in reaching national sustainability milestones.
Ajman Aims to Become a Healthier and Greener Emirate
The environmental efforts in Ajman are not only about pollution control—they are part of a bigger plan to make the emirate a safer and healthier place to live. Dr. Al Hosani said that the Department is committed to adopting the best environmental practices locally and internationally.
This includes learning from successful green models around the world and applying them in ways that suit Ajman’s development plans. These actions improve the quality of life for residents and visitors while protecting the natural beauty of the emirate for future generations.
Future Plans for Environmental Development
Ajman is looking ahead with ambition. By expanding the number of monitoring stations, upgrading data systems, and introducing stricter regulations, the emirate aims to become a regional leader in environmental sustainability.
The Department is also exploring the launch of more programs similar to the Environmental Compliance Programme, particularly for waste management, water conservation, and energy efficiency.
Such steps will help ensure that the improvements made so far will not only continue but also reach new heights.
Ajman’s air quality achievement of 96.19 percent in the first half of 2025 is a clear example of how planned efforts, modern technology, and responsible governance can lead to real environmental progress. Through the hard work of the Department of Municipality and Planning, supported by national goals and international best practices, the emirate has made major strides toward a cleaner, greener future.
As Ajman continues to grow and develop, these environmental efforts will play a key role in ensuring that economic progress goes hand in hand with sustainability. The results so far are promising—and the future looks even greener.
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