BAHRAIN’S afforestation target for this year – 170,000 trees – has already been surpassed, it has been revealed.
Northern Municipality director general Lamya Al Fadhala said that the kingdom’s green campaign was not only on track but consistently outperforming expectations.
She was speaking at the Northern Municipal Council meeting, chaired by Dr Sayed Shubbar Al Wedaie, following a request for an update on Bahrain’s progress in its afforestation strategy.
“Every year we set a target and every year we manage to exceed it thanks to the tremendous effort on the ground,” said Ms Al Fadhala.
She pointed out that past targets, such as 150,000 trees, had also been exceeded by more than 20,000, prompting the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry to continually raise the annual quota.
“We aim to reach the national goal before 2035,” affirmed the official.
The government plans to plant 3.6 million trees by 2035, to ensure vegetation sustainability, improve air quality, enhance biodiversity and enrich the overall aesthetics of Bahrain’s streets and main roads.
However, Ms Al Fadhala said that the afforestation budgets were not split by governorate.
“It is a unified budget that covers all governorates,” she explained.
“We do not allocate separate amounts per area; the plan operates according to land availability, site readiness and the presence of water services.”
She acknowledged that the region’s climate affects tree growth and survival.
“Weather fluctuations can impact the trees, but we regularly monitor the plantations. Any damaged trees are treated or replaced to ensure sustainability of the green cover,” she stated.
Ms Al Fadhala
Ms Al Fadhala highlighted the remarkable transformation in several urban areas, especially Hamad Town. “Where Hamad Town once lacked greenery, today its prominent streets are fully suitable for large-scale planting. The change is visible to everyone,” she noted.
The kingdom’s afforestation plan, approved by the Cabinet, aligns with Bahrain’s commitments under COP26, including quadrupling mangrove trees and supporting the kingdom’s pathway to net-zero emissions by 2060.
The national strategy prioritises evergreen, drought-tolerant and salinity-resistant species that lower temperatures and absorb emissions.
Councillor Bassem Abu Idrees called Bahrain’s afforestation project one of the most significant environmental efforts in the region.
“The national afforestation project reflects Bahrain’s vision for improving quality of life and strengthening environmental resilience,” he said, praising Salman City as a model success story.
“Salman City demonstrates what can be achieved when government bodies, the municipal council and the community work hand-in-hand. It has become a modern city balancing healthy living with expansive green spaces.”
He urged all sectors – government, private institutions, NGOs and individuals – to contribute to the kingdom’s green transition.
“The success of this national project is a shared responsibility that enhances public health, community well-being and Bahrain’s global reputation,” he added.
“The council will continue monitoring afforestation efforts across all regions to build greener, more beautiful cities for future generations.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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