UAE National Air Quality Agenda 2031

UAE National Air
Quality Agenda 2031

www.moccae.gov.ae
UAE National Air
Quality Agenda 2031
UAE National Air Quality Agenda 2031
Table of Contents
Foreword 3
Acknowledgements 4
1. Executive Summary 5
2. Current State of Air Quality in the UAE 8

2.1 Regulation of Air Quality 8
2.1.1. Outdoor Air 8
2.1.2. Indoor Air Quality 9
2.1.3. Ambient Odor 10
2.1.4. Ambient Noise 10
2.2 Data on Air Quality in the UAE 11
3. Gaps and Areas for Improvement in UAE 14

3.1 Gaps relating to Outdoor Air Quality 14
3.2 Gaps relating to Indoor Air Quality 15
3.3 Gaps relating to Ambient Odor 15
3.4 Gaps relating to Ambient Noise 15
4. Challenges facing the UAE 16

4.1 Challenges in relation to Outdoor Air Quality 16
4.2 Challenges in relation to Indoor Air Quality 16
4.3 Challenges in relation to Ambient Odor 17
4.4 Challenges in relation to Ambient Noise 17
5. Linking the National Air Quality Agenda to National Strategies 18
6. Agenda Framework 20
6.1 Governance Mechanism 22
6.2 Enablers for Implementing the Agenda 22
6.3 Key Programs and Projects 26
6.3.1 Outdoor Air Quality 26
6.3.2 Indoor Air Quality 28
6.3.3 Ambient Odor 30
6.3.4 Ambient Noise 32
6.3.5 Raise Community Awareness of Air Quality Issues 34
6.4 Strategic Indicators 36
6.5 Alignment with the SDGs Indicators 37
6.6 Anticipated Impacts of the Agenda 38
6.6.1 Health impacts 38
6.6.2 Environmental impacts 38
6.6.3 Socioeconomic impacts 40
6.7 International conventions in the environmental field 41
UAE National Air Quality Agenda 2031
Her Excellency Mariam

bint Mohammed Almheiri
Minister of Climate Change and Environment
Foreword
It gives me great pleasure to launch the "UAE National Air Quality Agenda 2031", to be the
strategy that will guide the national efforts to manage the air quality portfolio in the country in
the coming years.
Air quality is a national priority, given the direct and indirect implications it can have on health,
the economy and the environment.
The agenda provides an overview of the current state of air quality in the UAE as well as the
relevant challenges and opportunities. It defines four focus areas - outdoor air quality, indoor
air quality, ambient odor and ambient noise – and its implementation aims to achieve range of
health, environmental, social and economic benefits.
The development of the Agenda was made possible through the valuable contributions of
various federal and local government stakeholders. The active participation of our institutional
partners proves the paramount importance of this endeavor. On that note, I extend my
sincerest appreciation for their continued support, and hope that these partnerships will go a
long way in advancing the implementation of the Agenda.
www.moccae.gov.ae
3
UAE National Air Quality Agenda 2031 UAE National Air Quality Agenda 2031
Acknowledgements 1. Executive Summary

The UAE Air Quality Agenda 2031 was developed by the Ministry of Climate Change and Air pollution is a recognized global issue 20213 and will similarly recognize air
Environment (MOCCAE) in partnership with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI). The which poses significant risks to the quality in the UAE’s Centennial 2071
document also benefited from technical input from AECOM and a review by the Climate and population. The World Health Plan4 objectives, which place a strong
Clean Air Coalition. It was prepared based on a detailed situation and gap analysis, Organization (WHO) considers clean air to emphasis on a high quality of life and
international benchmarking, and a series of group and bilateral consultation meetings with be a basic requirement of human health sustainable economy. Through this
various federal and local entities listed below. and well-being1 and estimates that Agenda, the UAE aspires to:
outdoor and indoor air pollution lead to
• Abu Dhabi Airports • Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi approximately 7 million premature deaths Enhance air quality to contribute to a
worldwide each year2. safe and healthy environment that
• Abu Dhabi Public Health Center • Environment Protection and Development Authority - RAK
improves the quality of life
• Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport • Etihad Rail The UAE has long recognized the The importance of air quality is also
• Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council • Fujairah Environment Authority important role air quality plays in recognized in the National Environmental
• Abu Dhabi Waste Management Center (Tadweer) • Fujairah Municipality supporting an overall healthy and Policy of the UAE5. It sets “improving air
sustainable life for its inhabitants. quality” as one of its eight priorities and
• Ajman Municipality & Planning Department • General Civil Aviation Authority
Consequently, the UAE afforded air specifies goals for it. In doing so, it adopts
• Bee’ah • Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure quality a high priority and a key an interpretation of air quality which
• Department of Civil Aviation & Sharjah Airport Authority • Ministry of Health and Prevention performance indicator (KPI) under its explicitly recognizes four areas of air
National Agenda leading to its Vision pollution namely:
• Department of Health Abu Dhabi • Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology
• Dibba Al Fujairah Municipality • Ministry of Interior
• Dubai Airports • Sharjah City Municipality Outdoor Air Pollution - frequently associated with so-called
• Dubai Civil Aviation Authority • Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority ‘classical’ air pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulphur
dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3) and particulate matter, as well as a variety
• Dubai Municipality • Umm Al Quwain Municipality of organic and inorganic pollutants. Pollution sources could include
stationary sources, mobile sources and area sources, and could
arise from anthropogenic activities or naturally-occurring processes.
Indoor Air Pollution - caused by a very broad range of sources,

including dampness / mould, cleaning / construction related
chemicals / pesticides / tobacco / incense smoke and entrainment
from outdoor pollution.
Ambient Odors - a form of air pollution that can lead to

decreased quality of life or sense of wellbeing for members of the
public, and exposures to odors can sometimes cause adverse
health effects.
Ambient Noise - excessive ambient noise levels can pollute the

atmosphere, causing annoyance and affecting peoples’ quality of
life. The WHO considers environmental noise to be a public health
threat6 as it has been acknowledged to cause adverse human
health effects.
1
World Health Organization (2005). WHO Air Quality guidelines for particulate matter, ozone, nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide.
Summary of risk assessment.
2
WHO (2020). Health Topics - Air Pollution. https://www.who.int/health-topics/air-pollution#tab=tab_1
3
UAE PMO (2018). UAE National Agenda Towards Vision 2021.
4
UAE PMO (2017). UAE Centennial 2071. https://u.ae/en/about-the-uae/strategies-inititives-and-awards/federal-governments-strategies-and
-plans/uae-centennial-2071
5
MOCCAE (2020). UAE Environmental Policy.
6
WHO (1995). Guidelines for Community Noise.
4 5
In recent years, both local and federal of related sectors. It was designed to The agenda was developed in partnership resources in multiple sectors and entities
government agencies have made align with and support other national with the federal and local government to achieve the national vision. Therefore,
significant efforts to develop a robust thematic or sectoral strategies, such as: and in line with international best the successful implementation relies at
understanding of the current state of air practices. It follows an integrated the availability of resources shown in
quality within the UAE. Efforts have The Green Agenda, the National approach by emphasizing the importance Figure (2) at each of the collaborating
tended to focus on implementing Innovation Strategy, the UAE Energy of concerted efforts and individual entities.
initiatives which deliver improvements to Strategy 2050, the National Smart
air quality management but may not Mobility Strategy, and the UAE Strategy Enablers Strategic Indicators
necessarily maximize the beneficial for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It
outcomes of their efforts. Therefore, this also seeks to improve air quality in four An integrated governance
UAE Air Quality Agenda has been areas: outdoor air quality, indoor air system for managing the The percentage of
developed with the objective to lead and quality, ambient odors and ambient air quality file compliance with
coordinate the actions from federal noise. national standards
and local institutions for streamlined
monitoring and management of air A key objective has been developed for Encouraging scientific
quality and effective mitigation of air each of the four areas and key and academic research
pollution. performance indicators to measure
progress, taking into account the PM2.5 concentration
Enhancing community in residential areas
The Agenda is thus expected to drive air country's level of maturity in each of the
awareness on air quality
quality improvements while also areas, in addition to ensuring its
issues
supporting the realization of co-benefits compatibility with the 2030 Sustainable
and leveraging synergies across a range Development Goals.
Strengthening technical Number of standards
and human capabilities issued/updated related
to maintaining indoor
air quality
Reduce levels of Reducing Facilitating the availability
outdoor air exposure to of financial resources
pollution and ambient odors
% of Hourly Mean of
human exposure
to pollutants hydrogen sulfide (H2S)
Promoting, adopting and
Concentrations
applying advanced
The technology and innovation
<10µg/m3
Agenda has
four strategic Figure 2: Enablers to achieve the indicators of the National Air Quality Agenda 2031
objectives:
Due to the nature of air quality and its which depends on the successful
Improve indoor Reducing noise
air quality and levels and keeping impact on several sectors and the variety completion of activities through the
reduce human them within of partners in each of the four focus cooperation and commitment of the
health risks due permissible limits areas, national working groups/ concerned authorities to implement the
to exposure committees will be established to Agenda. The Ministry of Climate Change
manage each of the four areas: outdoor & Environment will act as the lead entity
air quality, indoor air quality, odors and of the Agenda, it will follow up on its
ambient noise, to meet the required implementation, and will submit a report
Figure 1: Strategic objectives for the National Air Quality Agenda 2031 actions at the national level. Roles and on the progress of the action plan to the
responsibilities for the initiatives were UAE Council for Environmental and
also defined in the implementation plan, Municipal Work.
6 7
2. Current State of Air

Quality in the UAE
2.1 Regulation of Air Quality 2.1.2 Indoor Air Quality Pesticide use / management is covered by
The following subsections set out how Comparison of the above standards to While there are no federal regulations general framework documents in certain
the four elements of air quality (outdoor several benchmarked countries reveals a
relating to indoor air quality, certain emirates10. Despite the current absence
air, indoor air, ambient noise, and similar range of criteria / priority
pollutants (SO2, NO2, CO, O3, PM10) are elements of indoor air quality of federal regulations on indoor air
ambient odor) are currently regulated in
the UAE. regulated. The UAE does not currently management are also picked-up on in quality, indoor air pollution has been
include standards forother pollutants standards from the MOIAT and the identified as the second highest priority
Only outdoor air quality and noise are which are frequently regulated
federal Sustainable Buildings environmental health risk (after outdoor
currently clearly regulated at the federal elsewhere, such as PM2.5 and benzene. It
level. Note that certain initiatives is also noted that in some instances the Regulations published by the Ministry of air pollution) in the UAE11,12.
described later in this Strategy propose current federal standards for certain Energy and Infrastructure (MOEI). For
certain changes to the regulations in pollutants are not as stringent as
example, there are standards or codes of The roles and responsibilities for
force at the time of compiling this corresponding international benchmark
country or WHO guidelines. practice for designing ventilation monitoring and managing indoor air
document.
systems and undertaking sampling to quality are not consistently defined
2.1.1. Outdoor Air There are also accompanying emission ensure that levels of pollutants are kept across the UAE, although these have
Outdoor air quality is currently regulated limits for air pollutants from a range of
to a minimum. Similarly, there are been defined in some emirates (e.g.
by the National Government by means of stationary sources7. More locally focused
management and monitoring of outdoor standards relating to controlling the Dubai).
ambient (outdoor) air quality standards
for seven key air pollutants set in Cabinet air quality activities are generally compositions of surface coating
Decree No. 12 of 2006 Regarding conducted by environmental or her
products used indoors (e.g. varnishes At the local level, building performance
Regulation Concerning Protection of Air agencies within each emirate9.
and paints) and the use of asbestos in systems such as Abu Dhabi’s Pearl
from Pollution7, these are:
buildings. The new federal Sustainable Rating System for Estidama and Dubai
Buildings Regulations also Municipality’s Al Safat green building
Sulphur dioxide (SO2), acknowledges the importance of indoor evaluation system and Indoor Air Quality
air quality and promote a combination of Compliance technical guidelines In
Carbon monoxide (CO), design decisions and choice of addition to the "Barjeel" green building
appropriate (low emitting) materials to regulations in Ras Al Khaimah include
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), achieve a healthy indoor environment. considerations that are relevant to indoor
Currently, however, the scope of these air quality management.
Total suspended particles (TSP), guidelines is limited to projects
conducted by the MOEI.
Particulate matter less than
10 microns in diameter (PM10),
Lead (Pb) and
Ozone (O3).
7
UAE Government (2006). Cabinet Decree No. 12 of 2006 Regarding Regulation Concerning Protection of Air from Pollution.
8
e.g. United Kingdom, European Union, Canada, Singapore, China and South Korea.
9
MOCCAE (2017). Knowledge - Air Quality webpage. https://www.moccae.gov.ae/en/knowledge-and-statistics/air-quality.aspx
8 9
2.1.3. Ambient Odor (ESMA) also publishes a range 2.2 Data on Air Quality in the UAE outdoor air quality monitoring stations
Odors are currently not regulated at of standards which relate to the There is considerable variation in the located in all seven emirates (see figure
the federal level and the specific roles control of noise at source for specific availability and consistency of data on the below) that monitor a range of pollutants
and responsibilities for monitoring types of domestic appliances), some which varies between stations but in
state of air quality in the UAE (partly
and/or managing odors within each commercial / agricultural equipment,
attributable to the absence of unified many cases include those for which
emirate are in some cases not clearly and road going vehicles.
standards across all emirates). Data on federal limits exist, plus certain additional
defined or understood and there may
be some sub-areas that fall under the Certain emirates have implemented ambient concentration of pollutants in pollutants / groups such as volatile
jurisdiction of different agencies. their own initiatives in relation to outdoor air is the most abundant of the organic compounds (VOCs) and hydrogen
Most regulation in place also tends to noise, including some key four focus areas. The UAE has 54 fixed sulphide (H2S)18.
be reactive (e.g. takes effect in performance indicators based on
response to receipt of complaints, noise limit breaches16. Agencies such
which are then investigated). An as Abu Dhabi Department of
exception to this is work undertaken Municipalities and Transport (DMT)
in Abu Dhabi, where the Abu Dhabi incorporate noise into strategic
Quality and Conformity Council has planning processes to avoid / minimize
compiled several documents potential future incompatible land use
regulating waste management types (and thus the likelihood for
activities that can influence odor. noise-related issues). Recently,
authorities in several emirates
2.1.4. Ambient Noise (including Abu Dhabi and Sharjah)
Ambient noise is currently federally have also introduced new radar-based
regulated within the context of a monitoring of road vehicle noise, with
variety of land use types7, with limits a system of fines and license penalty
consistent with international points applied where measured noise
standards such as those published as levels at the roadside exceed a
guidelines by the WHO13 and criterion of 95 decibels17.
International Finance Corporation14,
though less comprehensive than the The roles and responsibilities for
European Noise Directive (END)15. monitoring and managing ambient
The Ministry of Industry and noise are relatively well-defined,
Advanced Technology (MOIAT) although noise is currently not
(formerly the Emirates Authority for monitored broadly and consistently
Standardization and Metrology across all emirates.
Figure 3: Ambient air quality monitoring stations in the UAE in 2021
10
i.e. ADS 7/2013: General framework for pesticides control in all fields of use including public health, agricultural, and veterinary pesticides
11
UAE Environmental Health Project (2010), National Strategy and Action Plan for Environmental Health.
12
MacDonald Gibson, J. & Farah, Z.S. (2012). Environmental Risks to Public Health in the United Arab Emirates: A Quantitative
Assessment and Strategic Plan. Environmental Health Perspectives 120(5).
13
World Health Organization (WHO) (1999). Guidelines for Community Noise.
14
International Finance Corporation (2007). Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines - General EHS Guidelines: Environmental -
Noise Management.
15
Commission Directive (EU) 2015/996 of 19 May 2015 establishing common noise assessment methods according to Directive
2002/49/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council.
16
Government of Dubai (2020). Dubai Air Environment – Noise webpage. http://www.dubaiairenvironment.dm.gov.ae/about_noise 18
Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (2020). Air Quality Monitoring System webpage. https://www.adairquality.ae/
17
Gulf News (2019). Do you drive a noisy vehicle in UAE? Dh2,000 fine, 12 black points. https://gulfnews.com/uae/transport/-
do-you-drive-a-noisy-vehicle-in-uae-dh2000-fine-12-black-points-1.1570009851811
10 11
In addition, in 2019, the UAE National Air Emissions Inventory Project19 was completed The UAE tracks outdoor air quality federal standards, though concentrations
providing valuable information about the sources of different key outdoor air pollutants in the performance by looking at various Key of ground-level O3 were more frequently
UAE20. The sectoral contribution of emissions per pollutant are presented below (Figure 4): Performance Indicators (KPIs). The KPIs recorded at levels in excess of the
track the number of days where measured standard. It has been determined that
data indicates that certain pollutants did ground-level O3 is the main driver of
not exceed their standards (referred to as potential non-attainment of the set API.
“Green Days”). The pollutants that the
UAE focuses on using this indicator Despite having met the targets for
include a basket of substances (NO2, SO2, particulate matter less than 10 microns in
CO and ground-level O3) known as the “Air diameter (PM10) for the past years, the
Performance Index” (API), PM10 and PM2.5. country experiences high concentrations
The UAE National Agenda leading to the of PM10 in the atmosphere from natural
UAE Vision 2021 set a target of 90% for sources due to the geographic location and
the national Air Pollution Index. In 2015 weather patterns of the UAE. This makes it
the individual emirates committed to difficult to evaluate the improvement from
incremental annual targets that contribute other mitigation measures implemented.
to reaching the national target. Changes in the PM10 indicator correlate
better to the weather conditions
KPI results over the period 2014 to 2020 experienced in that year in the UAE. This is
(Figure 5) indicate that, for the API, the the main reason why the indicator for
target percentage of “green days” has particulate matter less than 10 microns in
been achieved every year except 2018. diameter (PM10) is separated from the
Concentrations of NO2, SO2, and CO gaseous pollutants indicator.
tended to be below the corresponding
PERCENTAGE OF GREEN DAYS (AQI) 2O14-2020

100%
89%
81% 85%
76% 77% 77.4% 80% 80%
80%
72.2% 70% 71%
65.3%
60% 60%
55%
40%
20%
0%
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
AQI (WHO) ACHEIVED
PERCENTAGE OF GREEN DAYS (PM10) 2O14-2020 PERCENTAGE OF GREEN DAYS (PM2.5) 2O14-2020
100% 100%
93.2%
88%
80% 81% 83.9%
78% 80% 80% 80%
80% 80%
75% 71% 70% 70%
69%
60% 56% 60%

52% 54%
48% 50%
40% 40%
20% 20%
0% 0% 0%
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2018 2019 2020
PM10 ACHEIVED PM2.5 ACHEIVED
Figure 4: Sectoral contributions of pollutant emissions in 2015

Figure 5: Key Performance Indicators Results 2014-2020
19
MOCCAE (2019). UAE National Air Emissions Inventory Project – Final Results.
20
This project quantified emissions of six key pollutants (oxides of nitrogen (NOx), SO2, CO, non-methane volatile organic compounds Other types of air quality (indoor, ambient odors and ambient noise) are not monitored
(NMVOC), PM10 and PM2.5) from five anthropogenic source sectors in the UAE: energy, transport, industrial processes and product use
(IPPU), agriculture and waste. It found that the energy sector and transport sectors were the greatest contributors to national emissions broadly or consistently across all emirates with the result that there is comparatively little
of NOX and SO2 CO and NMVOCs. Notably, the inventory did not include emissions from construction sector activities. data available on these types of air quality in the UAE.
12 13
3. Gaps and Areas for

Improvement in UAE
Through benchmarking current practices reductions. The process could 3.2 Gaps relating to Indoor Air Quality • Lack of public awareness on the topic of
for managing air quality in the UAE to potentially adopt the Measurement, ambient odor.
Reporting and Verification (MRV) • A comprehensive set of standards
international best practices, several gaps
approach to ensure robustness, setting relevant and appropriate use 3.4 Gaps relating to Ambient Noise
and areas for improvement were
consistency and transparency. and/or composition- or emission-related • Noise emission standards for all of the
identified. These are presented in the limits for construction materials, furniture main noise sources / sectors including
following subsections, one for each of the • Federal versus local approach to air and decoration materials and cleaning (but not limited to):
four air quality focus areas. quality management: As described products is missing in the country, with • Transportation sector (vehicles
above, UAE manages air quality at the information scattered through different (including motorbikes), rail, navigation
3.1 Gaps relating to Outdoor Air federal level though MOCCAE, however guidelines, product standards and and aviation);
Quality certain roles and responsibilities are voluntary building guidelines. • Construction activities;
devolved to other agencies. This • Lack of comprehensive and universally • Domestic noise sources (e.g. air
• Outdoor air quality limits: The current applicable codes of practice or standards conditioning);
approach is successfully adopted
federal limits for certain pollutants are covering building maintenance activities • Commercial and outdoor practices;
elsewhere, however the absence of a
not as stringent as corresponding (as relates to indoor air quality). • Other sources (e.g. alarms, sirens,
clear framework setting out these roles
international benchmark values (e.g. • Absence of a clearly defined strategy and public address systems).
and responsibilities and ensuring • Federal standards not aligned with
SO2, NO2, O3 and CO are less stringent framework for responsibilities in respect
alignment between all stakeholders is global best practice benchmark.
than corresponding WHO guidelines). of the above points and indoor space
currently identified as a gap. • Managing the implementation and
Furthermore, some important ventilation design requirements.
pollutants are currently not afforded • Lack of public awareness on the topic of enforcement of existing limits and
• Air quality monitoring and modelling indoor air quality. guidelines.
federal limits (e.g. PM2.5, benzene and
standards: A number of countries (or in • Lack of communication of and increasing
H2S).
some cases regional-level agencies) the awareness of the importance of an
3.3 Gaps relating to Ambient Odor
have developed standards for air appropriate noise environment and the
• Source emission limits: Federal source
quality monitoring and/or modelling • Absence of specific regulation, standards potential adverse health implications
emission limits are currently set for a
activities. These provide clear and and/or guidelines relating to the (both physical and mental).
limited number of source types. These
consistent requirements for services monitoring, mitigation and management • Lack of noise mapping to assist in the
limits may not be applicable or
and studies relating to this topic and of odors (or indicator pollutants e.g. H2S). planning and assessment process to
appropriate for the wide range of • Apparent inconsistent approach to
would be expected to improve the mitigate and control gradual increase in
source types / sectors that are present receiving, processing, investigating and
quality of data generated. There are noise emissions which results form a
or emerging in the UAE (e.g. these do actioning odor-related complaints.
currently no standards adopted marginal increase in emissions with each
not specifically cover emerging • Unclear framework for roles and
consistently throughout the UAE. development.
technologies in alternative fuels or may responsibilities for monitoring odors and • Lack of public awareness on the topic of
not fully reflect currently emission the scope of such monitoring. ambient noise.
• Lack of economic evaluation: There is
performance achievable by reasonable
currently insufficient information to
means)21.
fully support the understanding of the
relationship between outdoor air
• National emission ceilings / targets:
quality and effects on public health to
Several countries track national
support decision-making.
emission totals of key pollutants /
groups, however this is not currently
• Early warning system to reduce public
done in the UAE. While such metrics
exposure: There is currently no system
do require quite comprehensive data
to warn the public about inevitable
collection and reporting (e.g. regular
high-level pollution episodes (e.g. dust
updating of a national-level air
storms) and to provide guidance on
emissions inventory), they can provide
how to reduce personal exposure to
useful metrics for target setting and
pollution.
progress tracking for emission
21
Several countries have compiled sector / industry specific source emission limits to ensure that these are directly applicable and are
representative of the current and future planned state of the sector. Related to this could be the adoption of a formalised standard of source
emission test methods (such as those published by US EPA which have since been adopted by several jurisdictions outside of the USA).
14 15
4. Challenges facing
the UAE
Various challenges that the UAE is likely have an influence on local-scale air 4.3 Challenges in relation to Ambient Odor • Retrospectively implementing source
to face in relation to each of the four air circulation, and thus on pollutant levels mitigation measures (e.g. traffic calming
quality focus areas have been identified experienced by receptors. • Regulatory gap for odor at a federal level. measures, construction controls).
and are summarized in the following: • Inadequate communication and • Inconsistency of odor monitoring data • Holistically managing the introduction of
identification of clear roles and quality and availability across the UAE.
4.1 Challenges in relation to responsibilities within intra- and new noise sources into the environment
Outdoor Air Quality inter-emirate level stakeholders. • Allocation of suitable resources and/or to limit the slow steady increase in
maintaining technical capacity for odor harmful noise emissions, or creeping
• Population growth and city expansion
causing an increase in demand for 4.2 Challenges in relation to monitoring, management and mitigation noise levels, as a result of growth
resources and transportation, and Outdoor Air Quality planning/enforcement within several (construction) and expansion
encroachment of sensitive receptors to • Absence of comprehensive federal emirates. (commercial, industrial and residential)
pollution sources. level guideline or regulation relating to • City expansion and population growth through source or propagation controls.
• Dependence on private cars and indoor air quality. causing encroachment issues for existing • Lack of buffers / noise attenuation along
preference for large SUV models (with • Vague or uncertain allocation of odor generating facilities and putting most major highways.
significantly higher emissions). responsibilities for indoor air quality more pressure on existing infrastructure • Inconsistency of noise monitoring data
• Allocation of suitable resources and/or monitoring, management and (i.e. generating more odors). and noise assessment quality and
maintaining technical capacity for air mitigation.
availability across the UAE.
quality monitoring, management and • A relatively small and disparate body of 4.4 Challenges in relation to Ambient
air pollution mitigation planning/ indoor air quality monitoring data • Allocation of suitable resources and/or
Noise maintaining technical capacity for noise
enforcement within several emirates. across the country.
• Population growth and city expansion monitoring, management and mitigation
• Potential lack of support for significant • Potentially large range of materials and causing an increase in demand for
investment in industry (reducing products, that if regulated under the planning/enforcement within several
resources and transportation. emirates.
emissions and improving requirements for having low emissions,
sustainability). Many industries may would likely need a form of validation. • Regulatory gaps (e.g. for thresholds • Lack of public awareness on health
perceive emissions controls/reductions Similarly, there may be challenges, at relating to specific transportation modes effects of noise.
as secondary issues as opposed to least initially, to limit the use of such – rail, air etc. described above).
opportunities to ensure the long-term ‘approved’ products within the market.
performance and sustainability of their • Numerous aging residential buildings
business. with indoor air quality issues23.
• Identified gaps in the regulatory • Entrenched cultural practices (e.g.
framework (in terms of outdoor air incense burning) and potential
pollutant limits and source emission shortcoming in general public awareness
limits, as well as sectoral guidelines on about indoor air quality issues.
emissions control / management).
• Entrainment of elevated levels of pollutants
• Transboundary pollution (both in terms from outdoors into indoor spaces.
of international transboundary issues
and those between emirates). • UAE climate often results in limited
potential to use natural ventilation for
• Natural sources of pollution indoor spaces.
(specifically the regional phenomenon
of elevated particulate matter levels • Allocation of suitable resources and/or
attributable to the arid and often windy maintaining technical capacity for
climate22) which significantly influence indoor air quality monitoring,
levels of key outdoor air pollutants. Land management and mitigation planning/
management practices such as enforcement within several emirates.
overgrazing of the desert and loss of • Limited definition of roles and poor
vegetation are also known contributors evidence connection between
to pollution levels. Changing topography environmental factors and health
(e.g. shifting of sand dunes) can also effects in the country.
22
Including mineral dust and naturally occurring aerosols.
23
Many older existing buildings do not meet minimum requirements for ventilation due to the lack of mechanical ventilation units in
building designs to provide the building with the required amount of fresh air and expel pollutants.
16 17
5. Linking the National Air Quality Agenda to the Brief description of the relationship to the
Strategy
National Strategic directions National Air Quality Agenda
In its drive towards achieving the country's vision, the UAE government has launched The National Innovation Strategy aims to elevate innovation in the UAE to
several strategies. The Agenda is directly or indirectly linked to these strategies. Table (1) new heights, where the culture of innovation is integrated between
individuals, companies and governments. The strategy mainly focuses on
below shows the relationship between the national strategies and the Air Quality Agenda. identified priority sectors that will drive innovation in the future including,
National
Innovation but not limited to, renewable and clean energy, transportation, technology
Strategy and health. Many efforts are being made to promote innovation in these
Brief description of the relationship to the
Strategy sectors, and the air quality agenda will contribute to supporting the
National Air Quality Agenda achievement of the objectives of the National Innovation Strategy through
the initiatives identified in the implementation plan.
The National Air Quality Agenda is aligned with the three main pillars that
the UAE Centennial 2071 focuses on. The governance pillar focuses on The strategy seeks to significantly change the energy mix in the UAE, with a
pushing the UAE government to be one of the best countries in the world. focus on moving away from fossil fuels and thus promoting renewable/clean
UAE Energy
Accordingly, the National Air Quality Agenda aims to enhance air quality technologies for power generation. The strategy also aims to improve energy
Strategy
UAE governance and strengthen cooperation between federal and local efficiency in the main consumer sectors. Efforts to achieve the objectives of
2050
Centennial authorities in order to ensure the success and efficiency of air quality this strategy will have synergies with the National Air Quality Agenda.
2071 management in the country and improve it.
The agenda also seeks to encourage the adoption of clean and innovative National This plan defines the UAE's strategy to address the causes and effects of
technologies that contribute to the country's sustainable economic growth. Climate climate change, and contributes to promoting the transition towards a green
This was outlined in the framework of the second pillar of the Centennial Change Plan economy and providing a better quality of life. Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas
Plan, which aims to achieve a diversified knowledge-based economy by (2017-2050) emissions will have benefits in improving air quality and reducing pollutants.
raising the level of productivity in all sectors.
The UAE’s Fourth Industrial Revolution Strategy aims to strengthen the
The ultimate goal of the National Air Quality Agenda is to improve air UAE's position as a global hub for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and to
quality, contribute to a safe and healthy environment and raise the quality of UAE's Fourth contribute to achieving a competitive national economy based on
life. Which directly contributes to achieving the centenary goal of "a happy Industrial knowledge, innovation and future technological applications that integrate
and cohesive society by the year 2071". Revolution physical, digital and vital technologies.
Strategy The National Air Quality Agenda supports the goal of the UAE’s Fourth
Industrial Revolution Strategy by emphasizing the importance of transforming
The Green Agenda 2015-2030 aims to enhance the country's capability and
to sustainable industries based on innovative clean technology.
provide the appropriate environment to achieve a green economy.
Green Within the framework of the strategic direction of clean energy and climate The strategy aims to develop a seamless, safe, efficient, reliable and more
Agenda action, the agenda included pillars such as green life and optimal use of The National sustainable transport network. The implementation of the two strategies
(2015-2030) resources, sustainable environment and valuation of natural resources, Smart Mobility will have common benefits, as they both seek to achieve sustainability in the
clean energies and adaptation to climate change and a competitive Strategy 2030 transport sector, with the aim of protecting the environment and reducing
knowledge-based economy. In turn, the implementation of the air quality the pollutants emitted from this sector.
agenda will contribute to achieving the objectives of the 2030 Green
Agenda programs. The strategy aims to raise awareness of environmental issues (including air
National quality) in the UAE to achieve more sustainable behaviors which will have a
Environmental positive impact on improving energy efficiency and making better choices
The policy aims to improve the quality of life, support the implementation of Education and regarding rationalizing energy consumption, consumer purchases, and
the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, promote economic diversification Awareness others. The National Air Quality Agenda will contribute to raising awareness
and prosperity, and preserve ecosystems and their environmental goods Strategy of air quality issues as part of its initiatives.
The General and services. There are eight main priorities that the policy focuses on, one
Environmental of which is "promoting air quality". The National Strategy to Combat Non-Communicable Diseases aims to
Policy The Air Quality Agenda will contribute directly to achieving this priority, in
create a healthy Emirati society free from the complications and burden of
addition to contributing to achieving the priority of mitigating the effects of National avoidable non-communicable diseases through activating partnership with
climate change, preserving the natural environment, and integrated waste Strategy to relevant sectors to reduce risk factors for non-communicable diseases and
management. Combat the rate of mortality and morbidity resulting from them.
Non-Communi- The National Strategy to Combat Non-Communicable Diseases indicated that
cable Diseases air pollution is one of the main factors for the development of chronic respiratory
(2017-2021) diseases in the country. Accordingly, the National Air Quality Agenda will
positively affect the treduction of ambient air pollution, which will contribute to
the reduction of non-communicable diseases associated with air pollution.
18 19
6. Strategy Framework Accordingly, the UAE Air Quality Agenda is built upon three pillars:
The framework for the UAE Air Quality Agenda was built upon the existing air quality
legislations and national/sectoral strategies and was developed through extensive
The Monitoring pillar relates to the actual measurement of air pollution
consultation with federal and local government and through careful review of international and related parameters24.
best practices including in the EU, the UK, Canada, Singapore, South Korea, China and the
GCC. The legislation, strategies and stakeholders consulted with to develop this Agenda are
The Mitigation pillar relates to a broad range of existing, planned
presented in Table (2) below. and/or required actions that will be taken to reduce levels of emissions
/ pollutants, and also reduce exposure to these pollutants.
Legislation Reviewed Strategies Reviewed
and Built upon and Built upon Stakeholders Consulted The Management pillar relates to measures that will allow for
interventions and initiatives to be effectively implemented, tracked, and
• Federal Law No. (24) of • National Green Agenda • Abu Dhabi Department of controlled to achieve the overall goal of improved air quality.
1999 on the Protection 2015-2030 Municipalities and Transport
and Development of the
• National Environmental • Abu Dhabi Waste
Environment The Agenda defines four focus areas: Outdoor Air Quality, Indoor Air Quality, Ambient
Policy Management Center -
• Federal Law No. (11) of Tadweer Odor, and Ambient Noise; each comprising several key priority sectors representing major
• National Climate sources of pollution and each with an overarching target and several supporting goals set
2006 amending
Change Plan of the UAE • Ajman Municipality across a range of action themes. This is summarized in Figure 6:
provisions of Federal
2017-2050
Law No. (24) of 1999 • Dibba Al Fujairah Municipality
• UAE National Energy
• Cabinet Decree No. (12) • Dubai Municipality
Strategy 2050
of 2006 regarding
• Ministry of Interior
Regulation Concerning • National
Protection of Air from Non-Communicable • Ministry of Industry and
Pollution Diseases - NCD Plan Advanced Technology
(2017-2021) Strategic
• Ministerial Resolution • Environment Agency - Abu
Pillars
359/2015 regarding the • UAE National Smart Dhabi
technical requirements Mobility Strategy 2030 Monitoring Mitigation Management
• Environment Protection and
for air quality monitoring
• UAE Strategy for the Development Authority - RAK
devices (applicable for
Fourth Industrial
quarries and crushers) • Fujairah Municipality
Revolution Main Focus Outdoor Air Indoor Air Ambient Ambient
• Other legislation • General Civil Aviation Quality Quality Odor Noise
• UAE National Areas
concerning the EIA and Authority
Innovation Strategy
Sectoral decrees
• Ministry of Energy and
(e.g. mining, transport, • National Environmental Supporting
Infrastructure 8 3 4 5
waste, etc.) Education and Goals
Awareness Strategy • Ministry of Health and
Prevention
Action
29 6 10 16
• Sharjah Environment and Themes
Protected Areas Authority
• Umm Al Quwain Municipality Key Transport, Construction Waste Transport,
energy and supplies, management, construction,
• Sharjah Municipality Sectors electricity Materials used wastewater industrial sector
• Beea’h - Sharjah generation, in household treatment,
waste, products and industries
• Abu Dhabi Public Health construction maintenance
Centre
Figure 6: Number of initiatives in each of the main focus areas
Table 2: Consulted legislation, strategies and partners for developing the Agenda
24
It is highlighted that the “Management” pillar includes a monitoring aspect, however within the context of the three pillars of the
Strategy, the “Monitoring” pillar specifically relates to physical monitoring / measurement of air pollutants or related criteria.
20 21
6.1 Governance Mechanism The Agenda defined the roles and

The UAE Council for Environmental and responsibilities in its implementation plan.
Municipal Work is responsible for laying The success of the Agenda depends on
down the general foundations for achieving the initiatives by the concerned
promoting joint action in the field of authorities by including it in their annual
environment and municipal services. The plans and allocating the necessary Science,
Communication
Council will act as the steering committee financial, human and technical resources Institutional
and
Technology,
Framework Research
for the implementation and follow-up of to implement these initiatives. The Engagement
and Training
the Agenda as a permanent item on the Ministry of Climate Change and
Council's agenda. Environments is the designated body to An integrated governance policy and
follow-up on the progress of the initiatives system that includes a clear
Given the cross-sectoral nature of air in cooperation with the concerned institutional framework to enhance
quality and the different partners in each authorities to implement the Agenda. cooperation between partners
of the four focus areas: outdoor air
quality, indoor air quality, odors and 6.2 Enablers for the implementation Enhancing technical and human
ambient noise; national working of the Agenda capabilities within the field of
groups/committees will be established to To provide the most effective effective air quality management
manage matters of a particular area that environment for the Agenda to be
Encouraging scientific and academic
Enablers
require additional action at national level. implemented, and to ensure that positive research in the fields of monitoring,
Roles and responsibilities for outcomes are maximized, seven critical mitigation and management
implementation have also been defined in success factors have been identified.
the implementation plan. Implementation These were developed based on the Promoting, adopting and applying
relies on the successful completion of the identified key gaps and challenges in advanced technology and innovation
initiatives through the cooperation and respect of improving air quality in the
commitment of the concerned UAE (see Sections 3 and 4) and feedback Facilitating and providing financial
from the stakeholder engagement resources
authorities. The Ministry of Climate
Change & Environment will act as the process. These success factors fall into Raising community awareness of air
lead entity of the Agenda, it will follow up three overall themes presented in the quality issues
on its implementation, and will submit a table below: Institutional Framework,
report on the progress of the action plan Communication and Engagement, and Figure 7: Key enablers for implementing the strategy
to the UAE Council for Environmental and Science, Technology, Research and
Municipal Work. Training.
- An integrated governance policy and Agenda in various sectors, in addition to
system that includes a clear provisions for managing data and
institutional framework to enhance information related to air quality.
cooperation between partners - Enhancing technical and human
It is important for the institutional capabilities within the effective
framework to define the information management of air quality
and requirements for all partners. Activities related to monitoring and
Topics to be included in the institutional managing air quality, reviewing and
framework include: policies at the advising on air pollution or exposure
federal level, regional and international mitigation measures, and maintaining
obligations, roles, responsibilities and an appropriate level of enforcement
obligations of each partner, provisions required varying degrees of specialized
for monitoring compliance, ensuring skills and techniques. Therefore, it is
enforcement of regulations and important for the authorities concerned
legislation, sanctions and incentives, with implementing the Agenda to
and mechanisms to enhance and enable strengthen the technical and human
the governance of issues related to air capabilities necessary to carry out the
quality management within the federal tasks of monitoring, observing and
and local government and those managing air quality in an efficient and
concerned with implementing the effective manner.
22 23
6.3 Key Programs and Action

- Encouraging scientific and academic and mitigating pollution requires many
research in the fields of monitoring, resources, the most important of which 6.3.1. Outdoor Air Quality
mitigation and management are financial resources. Financial Table (3) sets out the first strategic goal for outdoor air quality in the UAE and includes
Having access to current, robust and resources will enable to keep pace with eight key programs along with the action required to achieve the strategic goal.
relevant scientific and academic the continuous development in various
research is essential to ensuring sectors affecting air quality, and
sustained and effective efforts are made developing specific and innovative Outdoor Air Quality
towards improving air quality. solutions to ensure the achievement of
Accordingly, it will be necessary to the Agenda’s goals in the four areas. It Key Programs Action Monitoring Management Mitigation
encourage scientific and academic should be noted that the
research and consider aspects of implementation of the agenda depends P1 Strengthen the Strengthen the framework for
cross-disciplinary cooperation, where on the availability of financial resources institutional coordination and collaboration of
the integrated outputs and findings in each of the entities concerned. framework, outdoor air quality management
human resource activities
provide meaningful and useful
- Raising community awareness of air and technical
information for decision makers. It capacity, and Enhance human resource and
should also be noted the importance of quality issues technical capacities of the
scope of
activating these channels and There is an urgent need to raise government government entities in outdoor air
benefiting from these studies by awareness of air quality issues across agencies to monitoring and management
strengthening the partnership between the board to drive a more holistic and effectively Review and update national air
government agencies and relevant integrated approach across government monitor and quality limits / standards
universities to ensure effective (e.g., explicitly integrating air quality manage outdoor
partnership. management concepts into strategic air quality. Develop the National Air Emissions
Inventory guide for periodic data
work across disciplines such as urban
collection and inventory development
- Promoting, adopting and applying planning, health and education). This
advanced technology and innovation enhances the harmonization of P2 Ensure that air Utilize planning policy to
Efforts to improve air quality will require strategies and policies to achieve the quality is a key effectively consider air quality
adopting advanced technology and greatest efficiency in the efforts made in consideration
during the Evaluate air quality impacts of
artificial intelligence in order to achieve each of the fields. It is necessary to developments using consistent
development and
the Agenda’s goals. Applications fir implement measures to raise society's criteria
implementation of
advanced technology span many awareness of air quality issues with the
strategic projects,
aspects of the Agenda’s framework, aim of changing consumer choices, and that it is
including, but not limited to: enhancing habits/behaviors and a push to make acknowledged
capabilities while reducing costs in air informed decisions that will limit air as an important Define air quality ”critical zones”
quality monitoring, providing innovative pollution and reduce exposure to factor for
technology that contributes to pollutants. Air quality is one of the main sustainable urban
sustainable growth in all sectors, such issues that various segments of society development.
as transportation, energy, building and must be made aware of, especially
P3 Reduce Reduce emissions from road
construction, while controlling children and youth. Raising awareness
emissions arising transport
emissions of air pollutants, and and providing good knowledge among activities relating
facilitating effective management community members is important to to the transport Reduce emissions from off-road
through data modeling and forecasts. change behaviors that will reduce air sector mobile machinery/vehicles
pollution resulting from various sectors
Reduce emissions from aviation
- Facilitating and providing financial such as transportation, energy sector activities
resources generation and waste.
Reduce emissions from maritime
Managing and monitoring air quality
transport
Reduce emissions from rail transport
24 25
P4 Reduce Adopt cleaner technology to generate The (P1) key program of the Agenda is to case of waste-to-energy) and key
emissions arising electricity help ensure adequate institutional and strategies (e.g. odors) as there are several
from activities of technical capacity in tackling outdoor air overlaps since emissions associated with
the electricity Increase understanding and regulation quality issues. waste sector activities are affected by the
of 'non-utility' electricity generation
generation sector type of processes and materials used.
activities
As population and infrastructure demand Efforts in this sector will include enabling
Develop sectoral source emission grows, the (P2) key program focuses on the use of innovative technology and
limits ensuring that air quality considerations effective practices to reduce emissions
are properly taken into account in urban associated with waste treatment and
Reduce demand side
electricity use
development plans. disposal and to maximize the benefits
that can be obtained from waste reuse.
P5 Reduce emissions Develop and adopt sector-specific The (P3) key program recognizes
arising from the guidelines emissions from the transport sector as a The (P7) key program recognizes that the
industrial significant source of air pollution in the construction sector (including demolition)
processes and Review and update sectoral source
emission limits UAE and calls for urban planners, transport in the UAE is a significant contributor of
product use
and housing authorities and other outdoor air pollutants but has historically
(IPPU) sector and Operators to develop emission
energy generation
stakeholders to collaborate effectively to seen less focus in terms of air quality
reduction plans develop plans to improve air quality and monitoring and management. Project
(other than for
electricity Control/prevent air quality impacts reduce population exposure to pollution. construction programs can span several
generation) through planning and/or permitting years and emissions can change
The (P4) key program identifies that the throughout the life of construction and
P6 Reduce emissions Develop and adopt sector-specific
electricity generation sector, including arise from a range of sources including
arising from waste guidelines aimed at reducing the air
the use of generators for residential, exhaust emissions from equipment and
sector activities emissions from waste management
and maximize the tasks commercial and/or industrial use, is a vehicles used on-site, changes in on-road
environmental major source of air pollutant emissions in traffic flows (due to construction-related
benefits of the
Review and update sectoral source the UAE and that planning policies and traffic or from traffic management
emission limits permitting requirements should play a measures), or dust generated on-site during
valorization of
materials recovered Control/prevent air quality impacts role in ensuring that such activities are construction or demolition activities.
from waste. through planning and/or permitting appropriate within the context of both
local and regional air quality. Energy The (P8) key program emphasizes on the
P7 Control and reduce Develop and adopt sector-specific
emissions arising
demand reduction strategies and importance of transboundary pollution
guidelines
from the construction government policies are envisaged to within the Gulf region and that reducing
sector activities Monitor and report emissions help to drive the change towards less its impacts is a priority that will require
polluting and more sustainable energy coordinated and sustained efforts from
P8 Regional Participate in international forums
generation technologies. multiple stakeholders in the region.
cooperation to influencing air quality and
Pollutants released within many of the
manage and transboundary pollution
reduce the
The (P5) key program highlights the countries in the region have the potential
impacts of Develop measures to combat importance of reducing emissions from to cause impacts long distances away
transboundary desertification and associated air the industrial processes and product use from the point of emission (including
pollution quality impacts (IPPU) sector. Pollution mitigation efforts across national borders). Therefore, the
Alignment of regional norms and will consider the use of Best Available UAE should continue to participate in
standards and emission reduction Techniques (BAT) to benchmark what can regional forums and alliances which have
initiatives be reasonably achieved to control the potential to reduce the impacts of
emissions. transboundary pollution, however
Cooperation in research and scientific
effective multilateral participation across
studies undertaken by the relevant
The (P6) key program focuses on policies several key priority areas shall be
regional coordinating entities
and strategies that mitigate emissions targeted. One such area relates to
from the waste sector, with particular implementing an integrated approach to
Table 3: Key programs and action related to outdoor air quality
emphasis on coordination between addressing air pollution and climate
sectors (e.g. electricity generation in the change as a linked problem.
26 27
6.3.2 Indoor Air Quality The (P1) key program arose from the could give rise to harmful pollutant
Table (4) sets out the second strategic goal for indoor air quality in the UAE and includes stakeholders highlighting at the emissions in a variety of materials used in
three key programs along with the action required to achieve the strategic goal. uncertainties around the roles and construction, furnishings and decorations
responsibilities in relation to indoor air and from the use of consumer products.
quality issues. A clearer and stronger Efforts will also cover where, when and
Indoor Air Quality regulatory and administrative framework how these standards are expected to be
will define roles and responsibilities for complied with.
Key Programs Action Monitoring Management Mitigation
indoor air quality monitoring and
management and pollution mitigation The (P3) key program recognizes that to
P1 Strengthen the Develop and implement a framework among relevant stakeholders. ensure buildings are designed, operated
institutional structure for monitoring and
Collaborative efforts and enhanced and maintained in a manner which
framework and management
human resources knowledge sharing from key stakeholders provides safe ventilation for occupants it
and technical will however been necessary to ensure will be necessary to build upon existing
capacity of that sufficient technical and human codes of practice and standards that have
government Enhance human resources and resource capacity are available. been developed by certain agencies and
agencies to technical capacity of the government stakeholders. A clear and comprehensive
effectively monitor agencies in indoor air quality The (P2) key program recognizes that framework of documents which sets out
and manage indoor monitoring and management
air quality and controlling emissions of indoor air applicable requirements for providing a
mitigate indoor air pollutants at source has the greatest sufficiently high standard of building
pollution. potential to reduce human exposure ventilation design, operation and
P2 Have access to a Review and conduct a gap analysis across various indoor settings. Actions to maintenance will be compiled and this
compendium of of existing standards support this goal will focus on ensuring will be communicated to relevant
standards that adequate standards are in place to stakeholders for use across all emirates.
setting-out relevant limit the content of substances which
and appropriate
use and/or
low-emission
specifications for Increase scope and coverage of
construction standards
materials,
substances used in
furniture and
decoration and
cleaning products.
P3 Have access to a Review and conduct a gap analysis of

compendium of existing standards/codes of practice
standards / codes
of practice on Increase the scope and coverage of
building design the standards/codes of practice
and maintenance
Table 4: Key programs and action related to indoor air quality
28 29
6.3.3 Ambient Odor The (P1) key program focuses on the technologies into their design during
Table (5) sets out the third strategic goal for Ambient Odor in the UAE and four key importance of a regulatory and project planning to ensure that measures
programs along with the actions required to achieve the strategic goal. administrative framework that includes to reduce potential odor impacts form an
clear and precise standards and integral part of the project development
guidelines at the federal level, and as early in the process as possible. The
Ambient Odor clarifies the roles and responsibilities of program also highlights the importance
relevant partners. In addition, it also of developing strategies to convert
provides the necessary technical and certain waste streams into energy to
human resources to implement and reduce odor emissions from landfills.
P1 Strengthen the Develop and implement odor maintain the initiatives. On the other
institutional monitoring and management
hand, the presence of the regulatory The (P3) key program addresses the
framework, framework
human resource framework will ensure that efforts are reduction of odors emanating from the oil
and technical Develop odor standards, policy and coordinated more efficiently, by and gas sector, storage and fuel
capacity of assessment criteria establishing and adopting a clear and distribution activities and their negative
government Control/prevent odor impacts through structured framework to cover all aspects impacts on society through the
agencies to planning and/or permitting related to odor management and development and adoption of special
effectively
monitoring, so that they are effectively guidelines to control emissions of odors
monitor and Enhance human resource and
manage odor. technical capacity of the government addressed. emanating from this sector, in addition to
agencies in odor monitoring and developing plans to reduce emissions by
management The (P2) key program recognizes that operators at all stages, including
minimizing odors from existing waste planning, implementation and operation.
P2 Reduce odor Develop and adopt sector-specific
emissions arising guidelines for controlling odor impacts sites without significant modifications
from waste poses a major challenge. It also The (P4) key program deals with odor
management and recognizes a need for an integrated emissions resulting from industrial
Operators to develop emission
disposal, and
reduction plans approach to odor assessment, activities and manufacturing processes,
wastewater management and mitigation to be taken with some activities (such as the
treatment activities.
to ensure that controls are put in place to production of chemicals, fertilizers and
P3 Reduce odor Develop and adopt sector-specific improve public health and perception. food processing) considered the main
emissions arising guidelines for controlling odor impacts Any actions to be taken need to ensure cause of odor emissions in the country
from oil and gas that measures are appropriate for the due to their wide spread. Thus, the focus
sector and fuel facility, cost effective and will achieve the should be on those activities through
storage and Operators to develop emission
reduction plans required improvement with the minimum planning/licensing controls and emission
distribution
activities. disruption to the facility. Innovative reduction measures to ensure that the
technologies can offer potential solutions impacts of odors are minimized.
P4 Reduce odor Develop and adopt sub-sector-specific
emissions arising guidance for odor emission reductions such as
from industrial and retrofits for existing facilities. New
manufacturing Operators to develop emission proposed facilities represent
activities. reduction plans opportunities to incorporate such
Table 5: Key programs and action related to ambient odor
30 31
6.3.4 Ambient Noise The (P1) key program focuses on The (P4) key program recognizes that
Table (6) for Ambient Noise in the UAE and five key programs along with the actions ensuring effective noise management mechanized industry has the potential to
required to achieve the strategic goal. through developing criteria that are create serious noise problems and can be
comparable with international standards, responsible for high noise levels
the establishment of recognized guideline outdoors. Noise from industrial sector
Ambient Noise for measurement and assessment of activities can arise from a wide range of
environmental noise and the machinery and power generation
enhancement of technical capacities of equipment and often increases according
regulators assessing ambient noise. to the power of the machines.
P1 Strengthen the Develop and refine noise criteria and
institutional standard methodologies for measuring
The (P2) key program recognizes that The (P5) key program indicates that noise
framework, and assessing ambient noise
human resources noise levels are expected to be higher in in residential areas may arise from
and technical Monitor noise levels nationally for the more urbanized and densely mechanical devices (e.g. pumps,
capacity of compliance with federal standards populated areas, particularly in areas ventilation systems and air conditioning
government Control and prevent ambient noise located in proximity to major roads, units), as well as other kinds of sounds
agencies to impacts through planning and/or railways or airports, Careful planning and generated by household equipment. To
effectively permitting management of transportation related control noise from such devices and to
monitor and
manage ambient Develop noise mapping for new major noise is required to ensure the comfort minimize adverse noise-related impacts
noise / strategic projects and health of the population. in domestic environments, interventions
focused on two distinct areas shall be
Enhance human resources and technical
The (P3) key program recognizes that implemented –noise control
capacity of government agencies
building construction and excavation measures/limits at source and measures
P2 Reduce noise Reduce noise impacts from road work causes considerable noise to influence behaviors and practices in
impacts arising transportation emissions. A variety of sounds come from relation to using noise-generating
from transport the operation of cranes, cement mixers, equipment.
Reduce noise impacts from the
sector
aviation sector welding, hammering, boring and other
work processes.
Reduce noise impacts from rail
transportation
P3 Reduce noise Promote good international industry

impacts arising practices
from the
Develop and implement plans to NOISE LEVELS
construction sector
manage noise in the construction sector
P4 Reduce noise Control industrial noise through

impacts arising planning
from the industrial Promote mitigation of industrial sector
sector noise by design
Develop noise monitoring measures in

the industrial sector
Develop noise management plans
P Develop standards to Develop and adopt guidelines for air

5 control noise arising conditioning units
from consumer and
household products Develop and enforce noise limits for
and appliances consumer products and appliances
Table 6: Key programs and action related to ambient noise
32 33
6.3.5 Promote community awareness of air quality issues The (P1) key program recognizes that The (P4) key program aims to raise
To improve and promote the community awareness on air quality issues, specific key improving knowledge on scientific awareness of indoor air quality issues, as
programs have been listed in Table (7). aspects of air quality management of achieving this will help to drive
greatest relevance to the UAE context will procedural and behavioral changes at the
help make policies and strategies more government level and society in general,
Programs to enhance community awareness of air quality issues effective, through ensuring that actions which should reduce the incidence of
are most appropriately targeted to deliver poor indoor air quality. The factors that
Key Programs Action Monitoring Management Mitigation air quality improvements. This may influence and relate to indoor air quality
include research on topics such as linking include many disciplines handled by
KPI for health and air quality, and PM2.5 different government ministries or
P1 Improve understanding Promote air quality speciation. departments. Therefore, efforts will be
of key topics relating to research and scientific made to provide the basic level of
outdoor air pollution studies
The (P2) key program recognizes that knowledge of the subject to relevant
through research and
scientific studies.
despite efforts to reduce man-made bodies, and to promote the recognition of
pollution, the UAE population may still be poor indoor air quality as an
P2 Improve awareness Increase awareness at risk of adverse health effects from environmental hazard that must be
of outdoor air quality and engagement on exposure to residual, natural pollution, or controlled. At the community level,
issues within air quality issues extreme natural events (e.g. dust storms). awareness of indoor air quality issues will
government and within government Awareness of air quality issues, both be enhanced through initiatives aimed at
society and society within government and the broader UAE incorporating elements of indoor air
population will benefit from the quality into the formal training of some
P3 Improve understanding Promote indoor air implementation of structured measures key professions (e.g. environmental
of key topics relating to quality research and to enhance understanding structured researchers / health officials, medical
indoor air pollution scientific studies measures to enhance understanding of sciences, building designers and urban
through research and key topics, such as the relationship planners), as well as at a foundation level
scientific studies. between outdoor air pollution, health and within the school curricula.
well-being, and the importance of
P4 Improve awareness of Increase awareness ensuring alignment of government The (P5) key program stresses the
indoor air quality issues and engagement on policies and strategies to maximize significance of awareness of odor issues
within government indoor air quality issues positive outcomes for all stakeholders. to ensure that this topic is given adequate
and society coverage and importance. Improvements
The (P3) key program r recognizes that in odor management will be more easily
P5 Improve awareness of Increase awareness since there are a significant number of achieved at the government level if there
odor issues within and engagement on variables that influence indoor air quality is at least a basic level of knowledge of
government and odor issues across spaces within the country, there the subject within the relevant bodies.
society are still certain gaps in scientific Odor-related topics will be integrated into
understanding and that there is a need for the formal training of some key
P6 Improve awareness Increase public further research and studies. In many professions (e.g. environmental
of ambient noise awareness and instances this will require collaboration researchers and urban planners), and at a
issues within involvement in noise between specialists in complementary foundation level within the curriculum.
government and issues fields (e.g. building / material design,
society environmental scientists, health and The (P6) key program relates to the
socio-economics). Developing a more measures to be taken to raise awareness
extensive and robust understanding of of ambient noise as an environmental,
Table (7): key programs action to raise community awareness of air quality issues the factors resulting in poor indoor air health and well-being hazard, which must
quality, and the consequent risks of be controlled by raising awareness of key
exposure causing adverse human health issues within various government
effects, will help make policies and institutions and the wider society.
strategies more effective, through
ensuring that actions are most
appropriately targeted to deliver
improvements.
34 35
6.4 Strategic Indicators 6.5 Alignment with the SDGs Indicators

Strategic objectives have been defined for each of the four main areas covered by the The UAE had an active role in the developing and negotiation of the Sustainable
agenda. In addition, strategic indicators have been developed to follow up on the progress Development Goals (SDGs), and since then it has been committed to pursuing the SDGs.
made by the implementation plan of the agenda (Table 8), and two other indicators will be Below is a presentation of the SDGs and their main indicators related to the air quality issue,
set during the implementation period in agreement with the concerned entities. in addition to the latest information on the UAE performance within these standards. It
should also be noted that these indicators are related to indoor and outdoor air quality only.
Table (9) shows these indicators.
Strategic Objectives Strategic Indicator Target

SDG Indicator Value (2017) Trend Remarks
- 100% compliance with 3.9 “By 2030, 3.9.1 “Mortality 64.8 deaths Decreasing There has been an
national standards for substantially rate attributed per 100,000 overall decreasing
Percentage of compliance with gaseous pollutants by 2040 reduce the to household (improving) trend
Reducing outdoor number of and ambient air in mortality rates
the national standards - 90% compliance with
air pollution levels deaths and pollution” attributed to air
and exposure national standard of PM2.5
illnesses from pollution over the
by 2040
hazardous past 30 years,
chemicals and and this trend is
PM2.5 concentration in Reach 35 µg/m3 annual average
air, water and projected to
residential areas concentration of PM2.5 in
soil pollution and continue.
residential areas by 2030.
contamination”
Improving indoor air Number of national standards Increase the number of national
quality and reducing its related to safeguard indoor air standards issued/updated relating 11.6 “By 2030, 11.6.2 “Annual 40.9 µg/m³ Increasing A slight upward
risks to human health quality to safeguarding indoor air quality reduce the mean levels of trend currently
adverse per capita fine particulate expected in
Percentage of hourly mean The target will be determined later environmental matter (e.g. average
Reducing levels of
concentration of hydrogen as part of the implementation of impact of cities, PM2.5 and concentrations of
exposure to ambient odors
sulfide (H2S) below 10 µg/m3 the agenda, in consultation with including by PM10) in cities particulate matter
(Details not yet unavailable) stakeholders. paying special (population less than 2.5
Details not yet available attention to air weighted)” microns in
The target will be determined later
Reducing ambient noise The target will be determined quality and diameter (PM2.5).
as part of the implementation of
levels and keeping them later as part of the municipal and
the agenda, in consultation with
within permissible limits implementation of the agenda, other waste
stakeholders
in consultation with stakeholders management”
Table 8: Strategic indicators of the National Air Quality Agenda 2031

Table 9: SDGs indicators related to the air quality issue25
A combined indicator that includes the four pillars (outdoor air quality, indoor air quality,
ambient odors, and ambient noise) is not appropriate at this stage, as the monitoring and
observation infrastructure is at different levels of maturity across the four sectors. In
addition, there is not yet a defined frame of reference common to all sectors that allows for
an integrated evaluation of the status of air quality or the magnitude of its impacts.
However, a big objective of the Strategy is to define the frameworks, metrics, methods and
tracking mechanism for the newly introduced elements, and for stakeholders to undertake
cooperative work that allows for the evaluation of the impact of air quality on the welfare of
the population.
25
UAE scoring data obtained from Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation website: https://vizhub.healthdata.org/sdg/.
Indicator 3.9.1 refers to a combined metric of ambient (outdoor) and indoor air pollutant exposure
36 37
6.6 Anticipated Impacts from the location. This point has been made - Agriculture There is a number of livestock and
implementation of the Agenda even more critical in light of the Agriculture represents a relatively poultry farms which cover a large
COVID-19 pandemic, where the small part of the economy in the UAE, proportion of the local demand for dairy,
6.6.1. Health impacts low/poor ventilation of indoor spaces with about 160,000 hectares (400,000 poultry and eggs products in the UAE.
could increase transmission of the acres) of cultivated land, but this Agricultural emissions such as ammonia
The implementation of the Agenda is
virus27. Lowering the population’s sector covers a large proportion of the associated with livestock farming can
expected to lead to a reduced incidence
exposure to odors and ambient noise local demand for fruits and affect natural habitats and plant health,
of respiratory diseases and other
can also deliver positive health vegetables30 and is therefore and can also contribute to the formation
non-communicable diseases (e.g. stroke,
outcomes, enabling better health and considered a highly important sector. of secondary particulate matter. The
ischemic heart disease, diabetes), and
wellbeing for community members. After the adoption of the National Air Agenda addresses these emissions even
subsequent decrease in the number of
Quality Agenda, it is expected that though they constitute a relatively small
premature deaths / reduced life
The Agenda is also expected to work will be undertaken on initiatives part of the overall air quality problem in
expectancy attributable to exposure to
support the development and to reduce the primary sources that the UAE. Similarly, the problem of odors
outdoor and indoor air pollution26.
implementation of appropriate contribute to the formation of the associated with activities related to the
Improvement of air quality in indoor
methods for prevention and ground-level ozone pollutant. These agricultural sector may require
environments is particularly important
mitigation of exposure to air pollution. measures and initiatives will regulatory or control measures under the
considering that people spend most of
This is anticipated to enhance contribute to reducing agricultural Agenda, but are not considered as major
their time indoors (especially in the
proactive and reactive capabilities in losses resulting from phytotoxicity, in issues. On the other hand, fisheries and
summer) and in some areas where certain
the health sector and therefore addition to enhancing the ability to aquaculture are not expected to be
portions of the population are at a higher
provide a more effective service. better meet local demand in the affected by the implementation of the
risk to outdoor air pollution due to their
medium and long term. National Air Quality Agenda.
6.6.2 Environmental impacts - Climate Change strategies which are collectively

The UAE’s total GHG emissions are anticipated to inherently reduce
- Biodiversity and Natural Resources it inhibits plant growth and affects both long-term emissions of GHGs,
expected to continue rising in line
The UAE enjoys a biodiversity that agricultural flora as well as natural thereby slowing the rate of climate
with projected economic and
includes a wide range of terrestrial and ecosystems. Emissions controls on ozone change.
population growth31. In terms of its
marine habitats across a range of precursor pollutants could help protect
Nationally Determined Contributions
ecosystems.28 According to reports sensitive and/or valuable ecological (NDCs) target, the UAE intends to Furthermore, the measures included
issued in 2020, the UAE includes 49 resources. reduce its GHG emissions for the year in the UAE Air Quality Agenda could
protected areas covering 15.53% of the 2030 by 23.5%, relative to the also directly support the reduction in
country's territory. The protected areas Other air pollutants such SO2 have the Business-As-Usual (BAU) scenario32. emissions of certain substances
contain the main types of terrain that the potential to directly or indirectly affect known to cause global warming, such
country comprises (mountains, deserts, habitat area or biodiversity indices (a The UAE Air Quality Agenda will see as black carbon and methane, that
and coastal areas) and include many scale of diversity of plant and animal the implementation of measures and belong to the group of short-lived
species)29. Industrial and oil and gas initiatives to reduce emissions of air climate pollutants (SLCPs), in addition
environmental habitats with varying
operations are a major source of SO2 in pollutants across several sectors to ground-level ozone.
degrees of sensitivity.
the UAE and therefore efforts to reduce (including some which represent
major contributors to GHG emissions, Implementing the Agenda is also
The National Air Quality Agenda attaches emissions of this pollutant may reduce
such as the energy, transportation likely to have adaptation co-benefits
importance to initiatives related to biodiversity losses. Reduction in
and industry sectors). Therefore, in in relation to reducing the burden of
reducing major emissions of air pollutants emissions of SO2, NOx and ammonia some instances these reductions are respiratory diseases. As climate
such as nitrogen oxides and volatile (primarily from the agricultural sector) are expected to deliver co-benefits in change worsens, respiratory diseases
organic compounds, as these pollutants also likely to reduce sulphur and nitrogen terms of reducing GHG emissions may pose an increased level of public
are the primary sources contributing to (acid and nutrient) deposition, which also (e.g. shifts away from fossil fuel to health risk, however the reduced
the formation of the ground-level ozone. have the potential to affect biodiversity. clean energy sources in the energy burden expected to be achieved by
Ground-level ozone is harmful to plants as and transport sectors), and this implementing the Agenda could
complements and supports measures reduce health vulnerability and
26
It is noted that specific population groups such as the elderly, young children and people with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular contained within other federal improve resilience33.
conditions, are more likely to experience adverse health effects due to exposure to air pollution.
27
The comprehensive package of preventive measures promoted in the country include physical distancing, wearing a mask, frequent hand 30
Nations Encyclopedia (2010). United Arab Emirates - Agriculture.
cleaning or sneezing into bent elbow. 31
MOCCAE (2017). National Climate Change Plan of the United Arab Emirates 2017-2050.
28
Beeatna (2020). Biodiversity and Environment. Available at: https://beeatna.ae/en/Biodiversity-and-Environment 32
Key sectors covered: Energy, Industry Processes and Product Use, Waste, Agriculture, Land Use Change & Forestry. Greenhouse gases
29
Bhuiyan, M.A. et al. (2018). Measuring the impact of global tropospheric ozone, carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide concentrations on covered: Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Methane (CH4), Nitrous Oxide (N2O), Perfluorocarbons (PFCs).
biodiversity loss. Environmental Research, 160. 33
MOCCAE (2019). Adaptation of the UAE’s Public Health to Climate Change.
38 39
6.6.3 Socioeconomic impacts emissions of outdoor air pollutants 6.7 International conventions in the environmental field
In addition to the health impacts (including odor and noise). Similar The UAE is engaged in many international conventions related to air pollution or climate
that were discussed earlier, the opportunities could be expected in change35, which may have an indirect impact on air quality, including, but not limited to:
resultant reduced air pollution relation to managing indoor air
related morbidity burden within the quality (e.g. air conditioning/
country would be anticipated to handling system installation and
maintenance). These enhanced The United Nations The Stockholm
have a direct impact of lowering
Convention to Combat Convention on Persistent
public and private healthcare opportunities could emerge across
Desertification Organic Pollutants
costs/expenditure. Additionally, a a range of domestic and
healthier and happier workforce is non-domestic environments (e.g.
likely to possess enhanced ability / residential developments, The United Nations
The Minamata
capability, which can further commercial premises, hotels, Framework Convention
Convention on Mercury
strengthen economic performance. malls, schools, construction). on Climate Change
Furthermore, improving outdoor air
quality and reducing emissions of In many instances, the monetary
The Kuwait Regional Agreement
odors and noise should support an costs associated with for Cooperation on the Protection
The International Convention for
the Prevention of Pollution from
overall perception (by UAE implementing measures to improve of the Marine Environment from
Ships (MARPOL 1973/1978)
air quality could be significant. For Pollution and its Protocols
residents and visitors) of a more
attractive and healthier example, operators of industrial
environment. This in turn lends facilities may need to invest in new
itself to further enhance the emission abatement devices or Since reviewing and evaluating all related marine environments or affecting them.
potential for tourism, and also improved process technologies to international conventions is not relevant An example of this is the Kuwait Regional
presents a more attractive achieve regulatory compliance or to this document, the relationship Convention, which sets out measures and
opportunity for overseas meet revised emission targets. between these agreements and the commitments to prevent pollution from
investment .34 Public and private enterprises National Air Quality Agenda is mainly affecting the regional marine
providing transportation related focused on limiting and reducing environment, which is one of the goals
Improved air quality can also services may also experience emissions. supported by the National Air Quality
increase the value of real estate. potential initial increases in capital Agenda. The UAE is also committed to
and/or operating costs to account As indicated above, the Agenda is implementing the regulations included in
More importantly, there is the
for emission control technologies expected to support the reduction of GHG the International Annex VI for the
prospect of “unlocking” portions of
or retrofits applicable to the mode emissions in the medium and long term Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships
land that were previously
of transport. These costs are as a co-benefit. This result is also (MARPOL), and the Agenda aims through
considered unsuitable for certain
expected to largely be passed onto consistent with the goals set out in its initiatives to support this commitment.
types of higher-value development
consumers. international agreements on climate
based on air pollution constraints.
change action. Overall, the implementation of the
This could be particularly important
National Air Quality Agenda will
in certain emirates where On the other hand, other agreements contribute in a positive way to support
developable land is scarce. focus broadly on reducing or limiting the aforementioned international
emissions of specific pollutants harmful agreements. On a larger scale, the efforts
Strengthened regulations relating to the environment (such as persistent that will be made by the UAE government
to air quality are anticipated to give organic pollutants (POPs) and mercury and strategic partners to implement the
rise to enhanced opportunities for compounds), and the National Air Quality Agenda will achieve multiple benefits in
providing goods and services Agenda supports the goals and improving air quality inside and outside
associated with controlling responsibilities included in these the UAE borders (by reducing pollutants
agreements. that can cause transboundary effects),
thus strengthening relations with
Two of the above conventions focus neighboring countries.
specifically on controlling emissions in
34
This could be realised by not only being seen as a global leader in environmental performance and governance, but also in terms of the 35
U.ae (2020). Environment budget, policy and laws. Available at: https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/environment-and-ener-
perceived quality of life in the UAE. gy/environment-budget-policy-and-laws
40 41
11 10
© UAE MOCCAE 2023
For further information or feedback:
Ministry of Climate Change & Environment

PO Box 1509, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Email: info@moccae.gov.ae

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UAE National Air

Quality Agenda 2031

2. Current State of Air Quality in the UAE 8

3. Gaps and Areas for Improvement in UAE 14

4. Challenges facing the UAE 16

5. Linking the National Air Quality Agenda to National Strategies 18

Her Excellency Mariam

Acknowledgements 1. Executive Summary

Indoor Air Pollution - caused by a very broad range of sources,

Ambient Odors - a form of air pollution that can lead to

Ambient Noise - excessive ambient noise levels can pollute the

2. Current State of Air

Lead (Pb) and

Figure 3: Ambient air quality monitoring stations in the UAE in 2021

PERCENTAGE OF GREEN DAYS (AQI) 2O14-2020

AQI (WHO) ACHEIVED

60% 56% 60%

PM10 ACHEIVED PM2.5 ACHEIVED

Figure 4: Sectoral contributions of pollutant emissions in 2015

3. Gaps and Areas for

6.1 Governance Mechanism The Agenda defined the roles and

6.3 Key Programs and Action

Reduce emissions from rail transport

P3 Have access to a Review and conduct a gap analysis of

Table 4: Key programs and action related to indoor air quality

Table 5: Key programs and action related to ambient odor

P3 Reduce noise Promote good international industry

P4 Reduce noise Control industrial noise through

Develop noise monitoring measures in

Develop noise management plans

P Develop standards to Develop and adopt guidelines for air

Table 6: Key programs and action related to ambient noise

6.4 Strategic Indicators 6.5 Alignment with the SDGs Indicators

Strategic Objectives Strategic Indicator Target

Table 8: Strategic indicators of the National Air Quality Agenda 2031

6.6.2 Environmental impacts - Climate Change strategies which are collectively

For further information or feedback:

Ministry of Climate Change & Environment

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