Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana Celebrates World Environment Day with Land Restoration Initiatives

Abu Dhabi, UAE – June 5, 2024 – In honor of World Environment Day, Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana is proud to announce a series of initiatives aimed at promoting land restoration, desertification prevention and drought resilience. This year’s theme, "Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resilience," underscores the critical need to rejuvenate healthy land, prevent desert expansion and manage water shortages.

Connecting to Nature and People through Action
Our team gathered for an impactful clean-up campaign and tree-planting event around the hotel area. This fun and engaging activity provided a unique opportunity for participants to connect with nature and each other, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility for our environment.

Garbage Analysis and Sahim App Collaboration
During the clean-up, we meticulously registered and analyzed the garbage collected using the Sahim app. This innovative approach allowed us to evaluate the impact of litter pollution and facilitated discussions on effective strategies to minimize waste around the hotel premises.

Ghaf Tree Planting: A Symbol of Resilience and Sustainability
Highlighting the day's activities, we planted five Ghaf trees, a species renowned for its drought tolerance and ecological significance. The Ghaf tree, the national tree of the UAE, symbolizes stability and peace in the desert environment and is crucial for the survival of various animal and plant species. These trees will help offset green carbon and contribute to land restoration efforts.

Fun Facts about the Ghaf Tree:

• National Significance: The Ghaf tree was declared the national tree of the UAE in 2008 due to its cultural and traditional importance.
• Longevity: Ghaf trees can live up to 120 years on average.
• Historical Examples: A well-known example is the 400-year-old ‘Tree of Life’ in Bahrain, thriving in the desert without obvious water sources.
• Traditional Uses: Historically, Ghaf leaves and pods provided food, its nutritious branches supported livestock and it was valued for its medicinal properties.

Join Us in Making a Difference
Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana invites guests and community members to participate in our ongoing environmental initiatives. Together, we can make a tangible difference in land restoration, combat desertification and enhance drought resilience, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.