Residents are encouraged to join a dedicated hour of action to help safeguard the planet.
Dubai: What started in 2007 as a simple symbolic gesture has grown into one of the world’s largest environmental movements. Launched by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) International, “Earth Hour” encourages people to switch off non-essential lights for one hour, raising awareness about climate change and biodiversity loss.
Today, Earth Hour is more than just a lights-off event—it’s a call for collective action. This year, the campaign celebrates its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of environmental awareness and community mobilisation.
Last year, participants from 192 countries and territories joined in, turning off lights at iconic landmarks and homes, while also engaging in activities such as mangrove planting, community clean-ups, and virtual events.
Why it matters in the UAE
In the UAE’s Year of Family, Earth Hour 2026 is highlighting the power of community, encouraging families to come together through shared environmental action.
On the local front, Emirates Nature-WWF is leading the campaign, motivating residents to take part and make a lasting difference for the planet.
The UAE has long shown strong participation in Earth Hour. In 2022, about five million residents joined the initiative, supporting events such as the “Switch Off Parade” at Expo 2020, the outdoor “Nature at Night” experience, and the “Go Beyond the Hour” awards, which honour leaders driving sustainability efforts.
Going beyond simply switching off lights, Earth Hour 2026 encourages residents to actively “give an hour for Earth.” The campaign invites people to spend 60 minutes engaging in positive environmental actions—whether it’s reconnecting with nature, learning about sustainability, cutting household waste, or motivating others to adopt eco-friendly habits.
The concept emphasizes that even small, consistent actions—when taken collectively by communities—can create meaningful and lasting environmental impact.
Ways to get involved
Earth Hour welcomes participation from everyone—individuals, families, schools, businesses, and government bodies.
Aligned with the UAE’s Year of Family, households can use the hour not only to turn off lights but also to engage in activities that teach environmental responsibility to all family members.
When and where to participate
Earth Hour 2026 takes place tonight, March 28, at 8:30 pm local time.
Whether switching off lights or dedicating the hour to reflecting on and acting for the planet, every effort matters. In a nation committed to sustainability, this is an opportunity for UAE families and residents to unite—not just for one hour, but for the planet’s future.
