Dubai Ranks Among World’s Top 10 Most Polluted Cities – September 10, 2025 Report

Dubai Ranks Among World’s Top 10 Most Polluted Cities – September 10, 2025 Report

Dubai, often recognized for its modern skyline and rapid development, is now facing an environmental setback. On September 10, 2025, the city was officially ranked among the world’s top 10 most polluted cities, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 142. This figure, categorized as “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” has raised serious concerns for residents, health experts, and environmental organizations.

The Global Ranking of Polluted Cities

According to the latest air quality report released on September 10, 2025, the top 10 most polluted cities include:

1. Delhi, India – AQI 289

2. Lahore, Pakistan – AQI 262

3. Dhaka, Bangladesh – AQI 240

4. Kabul, Afghanistan – AQI 212

5. Karachi, Pakistan – AQI 190

6. Beijing, China – AQI 176

7. Jakarta, Indonesia – AQI 164

8. Dubai, UAE – AQI 142

9. Tehran, Iran – AQI 135

10. Baghdad, Iraq – AQI 132

Dubai’s inclusion in this list highlights the growing challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.

Causes Behind Dubai’s Rising Pollution

Environmental experts point to several factors contributing to Dubai’s deteriorating air quality:

Construction Dust: Ongoing mega-projects release massive amounts of dust into the atmosphere.

Vehicle Emissions: Despite strict regulations, the high number of cars contributes to toxic air particles.

Industrial Activity: Manufacturing, oil refineries, and power generation add to the pollution burden.

Climate Conditions: Low wind speeds and high humidity trap pollutants in the air.

Health Impacts on Residents

The rise in pollution poses significant risks to public health. Doctors warn of increased cases of:

Respiratory illnesses such as asthma and bronchitis

Cardiovascular diseases

Irritation of eyes, nose, and throat

Long-term impact on children and the elderly

Government Response and Measures

The UAE government has pledged immediate action to tackle pollution. Measures under discussion include:

Expanding green public transportation

Stricter emission controls on vehicles and industries

Large-scale urban tree planting campaigns

Investment in renewable energy projects

While these steps show commitment, experts say that effective implementation and public awareness will be the key to success.

The Bigger Picture

Dubai’s ranking is part of a broader environmental challenge affecting South Asia and the Middle East. Cities like Delhi, Lahore, and Dhaka continue to dominate pollution charts, reflecting the urgent need for regional cooperation and stricter international standards.

Conclusion

Dubai’s rise into the top 10 most polluted cities serves as a wake-up call. If unchecked, air pollution could threaten not only public health but also the city’s global reputation as a hub for tourism and investment. The government’s proactive measures will need strong execution and citizen participation to bring cleaner air and safeguard future generations.