A senior city official announced:

Dubai's flame trees reduce ground temperature by up to 5 degrees Celsius;

The flame trees of Dubai, which were introduced to the city several decades ago, have now become part of the collective memory and urban identity of Dubai; trees that not only provide shade but also help lower temperatures.

These famous trees, with their stunning orange-red blossoms, not only beautify the city but can also reduce the ground temperature beneath them by up to 5 degrees Celsius. This was announced by one of the senior officials of Dubai Municipality coinciding with the official start of the first 'Flame Tree Season' in the city.

Khawla Al Ali, head of the executive team for leading and social initiatives in the agriculture department of Dubai Municipality, stated that the wide canopy of this tree, which can reach a width of 15 meters, not only offers striking beauty but also provides significant environmental benefits.

Referring to the official guide for the 'Flame Tree Season', she explained:

'This tree can reduce the ground temperature beneath it by up to 5 degrees Celsius and provides a more comfortable environment for outdoor activities during the hot summer months.'

Al Ali emphasized that this tree is not just a decorative element but is considered a functional species in urban green spaces that, in addition to seasonal beauty and providing shade, contributes to biodiversity and the sustainability goals of Dubai.

History of the Flame Tree

The flame tree, scientifically known as 'Delonix regia', is originally from Madagascar and was introduced to Dubai as part of green space development programs several decades ago. This tree was chosen for its impressive seasonal flowering, wide canopy, shade provision, and adaptability to desert environments.

This tree is now considered part of the collective memory of the city of Dubai, especially in older neighborhoods such as Jumeirah, Al Safa, Al Rashidiya, and parts of Deira and Bur Dubai, as well as along Jumeirah Street, the airport road, and Al Safa Park.

Sheena Khan, head of environmental programs at 'Terra' located in Expo City Dubai, stated that the flame tree has intertwined with the rhythm of city life over the decades.

She said:

'For many of us, these blossoms are a seasonal sign; they remind us of the end of the school year, provide pleasant shade for street gatherings, and announce the official start of summer in Dubai.'

A Celebration Across the City

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has officially launched the 'Flame Tree Season' as a citywide celebration of the blooming of these trees. The aim of this initiative is to encourage residents to pay more attention to the natural cycles of the city, utilize public spaces, and create memories related to the flowering season.

Khawla Al Ali stated that the flame tree symbolically represents growth, resilience, social pride, and the evolving green identity of Dubai.

Sheena Khan also noted that this initiative in Dubai is similar to famous natural celebrations in other cities around the world.

She explained:

'The famous cherry blossom season in Tokyo, Kyoto, and many cities in Japan turns the entire country into a pink festival of renewal.'

She also added:

'In Washington D.C., the National Cherry Blossom Festival is a century-old, four-week tradition that celebrates international friendship and the arrival of spring. Similarly, millions of tulips turn the Keukenhof Gardens in the city of Lisse, Netherlands, into a colorful celebration.'

Source: Gulf Times