Post by : Badri Ariffin

Following the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has launched Naseej, a pioneering initiative targeted at reimagining the textile industry within the framework of a circular economy.

Naseej aims to transition the textile sector from a linear model of consumption to a sustainable paradigm emphasizing resource conservation, recycling, and long-term economic benefits. This initiative aligns with broader sustainability aspirations and the national development agenda.

Developed through a collaborative partnership involving the National Projects Office, Ministry of Economy and Tourism, Emirates Foundation, and Tadweer Group, Naseej serves as a centralized platform uniting governmental bodies, industry players, researchers, and communities to foster sustainable methods throughout the textile supply chain.

Drawing from the UAE’s rich heritage of craftsmanship and resource stewardship, Naseej encourages the incorporation of modern circular practices in daily life while preserving traditional values.

Her Highness Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairperson of the Presidential Court for National Projects, remarked on the initiative's alignment with the UAE’s commitment to sustainability and responsible management. The program is intended to foster behavioral shifts, boost community engagement, and promote sustainable growth for future generations.

His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, affirmed that Naseej signifies an essential move towards embedding circular economy principles into the UAE’s sustainability framework. He emphasized the need for collaboration across institutions, industries, young innovators, and communities to rethink resource management.

The initiative comes at a critical time, as textile waste is a growing problem, with the UAE generating approximately 220,000 tonnes of textile waste annually. Naseej aims to tackle this issue via enhanced collection methods, innovative recycling systems, and promoting responsible consumption.

UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, noted that the initiative is vital for creating a comprehensive circular economy, aligned with global best practices. He mentioned that Naseej establishes a national framework linking policymaking, industry efforts, and public engagement to fulfill the UAE Circular Economy Policy for 2031.

The initiative is structured around five strategic pillars:

• Collection and Recycling
• Awareness and Outreach
• Behavioural Research
• Policies and Regulations
• Circular Business and Innovation

These pillars aim to enhance the textile sector, boost resource efficiency, and create quantifiable environmental and economic advantages.

Naseej’s groundwork commenced during COP28 with the involvement of the National Projects Office. Several agreements have been signed with various stakeholders in the textile ecosystem, including brands, manufacturers, recycling firms, research bodies, and community organizations.

In its public debut, Naseej will host a community event, “The Fabric of Possibility,” from June 5 to 7, 2026, at Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi. This interactive gathering will educate attendees about textile waste, promote sustainable solutions, and offer activities that advocate for a circular economy. Future events are anticipated to expand to other regions in the UAE.

Post-launch, Naseej will roll out national programs centered on sustainable textile practices, expand collection and recycling infrastructure, support research and pilot initiatives, and create scalable market solutions across the nation.

By integrating policy, industry leadership, and community involvement, Naseej positions the UAE as a frontrunner in circular economy practices, exemplifying a practical approach to harmonizing economic development with environmental stewardship.

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