Dubai has ranked fifth among the world’s most polluted cities, according to the latest IQAir global air quality report.
The emirate recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 160, placing it in the “unhealthy” category.
The findings show that even some of the world’s most advanced cities are struggling with air quality challenges driven by rapid urbanisation, traffic congestion, and construction activity.
The report lists Lahore (Pakistan), Delhi (India), Tashkent (Uzbekistan), and Karachi (Pakistan) as the four cities ahead of Dubai on the pollution index.
Why Dubai’s air quality getting worse?
Environmental experts note that while Dubai’s pollution levels fluctuate throughout the year, seasonal weather patterns, dust storms, and emissions from vehicles and industrial operations contribute significantly to reduced air quality.
Officials in Dubai have been implementing green initiatives—such as electric public transport expansion, renewable energy projects, and stricter emission regulations—to mitigate the impact.
