Across the UAE, residents are taking initiative to clean streets and public spaces after heavy littering from National Day festivities, responding to growing concerns about environmental responsibility and community cleanliness.
UAE Community Steps In to Tackle Widespread Litter Left After National Day Celebrations.
Following a vibrant weekend of National Day celebrations filled with car parades, family gatherings, and street festivities, many neighbourhoods across the UAE woke up to an unpleasant sight: pavements, parks, and public spaces scattered with remnants of the previous night’s joy. From brightly coloured silly string coating the streets to discarded food containers, drink cans, torn flags, and other celebratory debris, several communities found themselves dealing with the less glamorous aftermath of the festivities.
What began as a night of patriotic excitement quickly turned into a conversation about responsibility and civic awareness. As residents stepped outside on the morning after the celebrations, many were shocked at just how much waste had been left behind. Entire sidewalks were blanketed with streaks of silly string, vehicles parked overnight were covered in sticky residue, and public areas—usually spotless—looked neglected and cluttered. In some neighbourhoods, cleaners were seen working long hours to restore the streets to their usual immaculate condition.
It didn’t take long for residents to voice their concerns online. Numerous social media users posted videos and photos documenting the state of their communities, highlighting piles of trash along curbsides and plastic waste accumulating near roundabouts and open spaces where crowds had gathered. Many of these posts were accompanied by messages expressing disappointment that celebrations meant to bring unity and pride had resulted in such disregard for the environment.
Across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X, residents shared their frustration, questioning why some people celebrated the nation by damaging the very streets and spaces the country works so hard to maintain. Several users pointed out that while National Day is a time for celebration, it should not come at the expense of cleanliness, public order, or respect for shared spaces. Others called for stricter rules on party materials like silly string, which is notoriously difficult to clean and often banned during major events for this reason.
However, amid the negativity, another narrative also began to emerge—one of community action and public responsibility. Inspired by the online discussions, groups of residents in different emirates began taking matters into their own hands. In some neighbourhoods, volunteers gathered with gloves and garbage bags to pick up litter left behind by revellers. Families came out together, teaching their children about environmental responsibility and the importance of keeping their surroundings clean.
Several people shared videos of these clean-ups, turning what was initially a complaint into a community-driven initiative. These uplifting clips showed residents working side by side, collecting trash, wiping down surfaces, and encouraging others to join in. Many comments praised these individuals for stepping up and demonstrating what true patriotism looks like—caring for the country beyond the celebrations.
Long-time residents noted that this year’s littering problem felt more noticeable than previous years, possibly due to larger crowds gathering to celebrate or the widespread use of messy party sprays. Others suggested that awareness campaigns should be increased before major holidays, reminding the public that celebrations should not lead to unnecessary environmental harm. Some even proposed designated celebration zones where cleanup teams could work more effectively, thereby preventing litter from spreading into residential areas.
Despite the disappointment caused by the mess left behind, many residents viewed the situation as a chance to spark change. Commenters online emphasised the need for better public education on environmental responsibility, particularly among younger celebrants who may not fully understand the impact of their actions. Several users pointed out that maintaining the UAE’s reputation for cleanliness, beauty, and order is a shared duty, not just the job of municipal workers.
Municipal teams across the emirates were quick to respond, with cleaners working tirelessly to restore public areas. By midday, in many places, the signs of litter had already begun to disappear, a testament to the UAE’s dedication to maintaining high standards of cleanliness. Still, the incident has reignited ongoing conversations about how celebrations can be organised more responsibly in the future.
In the end, the aftermath of the National Day festivities served as a reminder that patriotism is not only about waving flags or decorating cars—it also involves respecting the environment, honouring shared spaces, and contributing to a cleaner and more beautiful country. The voices of residents, amplified through social media, highlighted the importance of awareness, responsibility, and community spirit.
And while the litter left behind was disappointing for many, the collective response—residents speaking up, volunteers cleaning, and communities uniting—showed that the UAE’s spirit of togetherness remains strong long after the celebrations end.
Across the country, communities are now being encouraged to take part in a large-scale clean-up initiative scheduled for Wednesday, December 3. The campaign comes in response to a public appeal made by Sheikha Shamma Al Nahyan, President and CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), who urged residents to step forward and play an active role in restoring the environment after the National Day festivities. Her message, widely shared on social media, has quickly gained momentum and inspired individuals, families, and community groups to volunteer their time to help tidy public spaces that were left littered after the celebrations.
The call to action emphasises the importance of personal responsibility and community cooperation in maintaining the UAE’s high standards of cleanliness and environmental stewardship. According to Sheikha Shamma, protecting the country’s natural and urban spaces is not something that can be achieved by authorities alone—it requires the collective effort of everyone who calls the UAE home. By encouraging residents to come together for a nationwide clean-up, the initiative aims to strengthen environmental awareness while fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Local municipalities and environmental organisations have already begun preparing for the campaign, coordinating meeting points, providing cleaning supplies, and encouraging volunteers of all ages to participate. Many residents have expressed their support online, praising the initiative as a meaningful way to give back to the community and to demonstrate genuine patriotism beyond the festivities.
The upcoming clean-up is expected to bring together people from all walks of life, reinforcing the idea that maintaining a clean and healthy environment is a shared responsibility. Inspired by Sheikha Shamma’s leadership, the campaign seeks not only to clear litter but also to spark long-term behavioural change, reminding residents that small acts of care can have a significant impact on the UAE’s environmental future.
In the days following the grand celebrations marking the UAE’s 54th National Day, many residents woke up to streets still bearing traces of the festivities—confetti scattered across pavements, plastic items left on corners, and long streaks of stubborn party spray clinging to the asphalt. Among those who noticed the state of the city was Sheikha Shamma Al Nahyan, President and CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA). Deeply troubled by the scenes she saw, she shared her concerns on Instagram, voicing heartfelt disappointment that a day meant to celebrate national unity and pride had instead resulted in such visible disregard for public spaces. “It’s heartbreaking to see our city left in this condition after a day so important to all of us,” she wrote, urging her followers to take responsibility. “Let’s honour the spirit of National Day by coming together to clean our city.”
Her message struck a chord across the Emirates, and what began as an emotional plea quickly transformed into a countrywide movement. Within just a few hours, Sheikha Shamma’s office began coordinating with Tadweer—Abu Dhabi’s Waste Management Company—to organise an initiative that matched the urgency of the situation. Appropriately named “Pride into Action,” the campaign aimed to channel the patriotism felt during National Day into a hands-on effort to restore cleanliness and order to neighbourhoods affected by the celebrations.
Teams worked swiftly to identify gathering points throughout Abu Dhabi, ensuring that volunteers would have easy access to join the effort. The announcement, shared widely online, invited anyone willing to participate. Sheikha Shamma used her Instagram stories to highlight the meeting locations, adding an encouraging note for those unable to physically attend: “If you can’t join us at these spots, you can still help wherever you are. Every small effort matters.” It was a message that spoke to both inclusivity and responsibility—an invitation for the entire country to participate, whether individually or as part of a group.
The response was immediate and overwhelmingly positive. People from all walks of life united under a shared purpose. Emirati families arrived with their children, using the opportunity as a teaching moment about caring for the environment. Expatriates came in large numbers, eager to contribute to the community they call home. Corporate groups also joined, many of them encouraging their employees to take part as a gesture of corporate social responsibility. The sense of unity was palpable as volunteers assembled with gloves, trash bags, and a determination to leave their surroundings cleaner than they had found them.
By 5 p.m., the clean-up effort was in full motion. The “Pride into Action” initiative became a moving display of civic spirit as participants fanned out across parks, streets, and open areas. Laughter, conversation, and teamwork filled the air as people worked side by side, clearing debris left from the celebrations. Volunteers collected everything from plastic cups and food wrappers to flags, confetti, and the most challenging waste of all—silly string and party-spray remnants that had dried into hard, sticky layers on the pavement.
Sheikha Shamma had highlighted this particular challenge earlier, noting that the residue from such sprays is notoriously difficult to remove, often requiring considerable scrubbing to lift it off the ground. Volunteers experienced this firsthand as they worked carefully to loosen the material from sidewalks and roads. Many commented on how seeing the amount of waste up close gave them a renewed appreciation for the teams who maintain the city’s cleanliness year-round.
Despite the demanding work, the energy among the volunteers remained high. The atmosphere resembled that of a community coming together not out of obligation, but out of genuine appreciation for their surroundings. People shared stories, exchanged messages of support, and applauded each other for stepping forward. Parents expressed pride watching their children take part, and children—some attending a cleanup effort for the first time—took their roles seriously, eager to do their part.
What began as a reaction to the litter left behind transformed into something far more meaningful. The initiative became a moment of reflection about how celebrations should be carried out, how public spaces should be respected, and how individuals can play a direct role in shaping the appearance and health of their community. Many participants said they hoped such awareness would lead to more responsible behaviour during future celebrations, reducing the need for large-scale cleanups.
By evening, the impact of the clean-up was already visible. Streets that had been covered in residue and scattered debris looked markedly improved. Volunteers left with a shared sense of accomplishment, knowing their actions helped restore the city’s beauty.
The “Pride into Action” campaign demonstrated the UAE’s enduring commitment to unity, environmental protection, and collective responsibility. More importantly, it showcased how a single call to action—rooted in concern and love for the city—can inspire hundreds to step up, work together, and embody the true spirit of National Day through meaningful, thoughtful action.
Among the many volunteers who stepped forward, one image stood out and quickly captured hearts: a young girl who arrived still dressed in her school uniform, eager to help the moment her classes ended. Her presence became a symbol of the campaign’s spirit—a reminder that environmental responsibility begins with the youngest members of society. Sheikha Shamma highlighted the girl’s participation on social media, proudly referring to her as “a young eco-warrior who came straight from school,” praising her enthusiasm and the example she set for others.
Her involvement resonated widely online, with many residents commenting that seeing someone so young take initiative inspired them to rethink how they approach community clean-ups and environmental stewardship. It became clear that the campaign was not only about removing litter but also about cultivating a culture of care and responsibility for future generations.
The corporate sector also stepped up noticeably, demonstrating that sustainability and community service are becoming an integral part of workplace culture in the UAE. Several companies encouraged their staff to join the clean-up, and some even organised internal groups so employees could volunteer together. Many businesses viewed the initiative as an opportunity to reinforce their commitment to social responsibility and give back to the cities that support their operations.
Sheikha Shamma expressed deep appreciation for the wide-ranging participation, both from individuals and organisations. In her message of thanks, she acknowledged the collective effort that made the clean-up successful. “My heartfelt gratitude goes out to everyone who came out to help restore our city’s beauty,” she said. “I am truly touched by the overwhelming level of engagement, especially from businesses that encouraged their teams to get involved.”
Her words reflected a growing sense of unity that extended well beyond the initial call to action. What began as a clean-up operation evolved into a powerful display of community spirit, showing how residents and institutions alike can work hand in hand to protect and preserve the places they share. Families brought their children, colleagues volunteered side by side, and individuals from all backgrounds contributed their time and energy, illustrating the strength of collective action.
Throughout the evening, the atmosphere was filled with positivity and purpose. Many participants said they felt a renewed sense of belonging and responsibility toward their communities. The initiative served as a reminder that maintaining a clean and healthy environment is not the job of authorities alone; it is a shared duty that thrives when people come together with a common goal.
The turnout demonstrated that the UAE’s commitment to sustainability runs deeper than official policies and environmental strategies—it lives in the actions of its residents. From a schoolgirl in uniform to corporate teams taking part after working hours, each contribution helped reinforce the message that caring for public spaces is a collective responsibility and an expression of true patriotism.
