Today's Edition
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)
There's more to Abu Dhabi than sun-kissed deserts and towering skyscrapers. The UAE capital has been named one of the top 10 cities in the world for green spaces and access to nature, according to Time Out's latest global city survey.
The results are based on a poll of 18,500 people from major cities worldwide.
The 20 that made the list had the largest share of "good" or "amazing" ratings for their green space and access to nature.
Abu Dhabi stands out as the only Middle Eastern city to make the list, with an 83% positive rating, earning it the ninth spot.
This recognition reflects its strategic investment in sustainable urban planning, from lush city parks to coastal mangroves and vast desert reserves.
The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) reports that the emirate now has approximately 5 million trees, achieving a ratio of 2.7 trees per capita.
These trees cover 7% of Abu Dhabi City, 15% of Al Ain, and 30% of the Al Dhafrah region.
Complementing this extensive greenery are urban parks such as Umm Al Emarat Park, Khalifa Park and Reem Central Park, which have become popular hubs for families, fitness enthusiasts and tourists alike, offering shaded walkways, botanical gardens and water features that provide both leisure and environmental benefits.
A must-visit highlight is the Mangrove National Park – a unique urban ecological haven offering kayaking, birdwatching and serene nature walks just minutes from the city centre.
The Time Out list was topped by Medellín, Colombia, where 92 of residents rated their city's green offerings positively.
Known as the "City of Eternal Spring", Medellín has undergone a green transformation in recent years, including the creation of cooling "green corridors" throughout its urban core.
Boston and Sydney followed closely behind, with strong scores for walkability and diverse natural offerings.
