Iraqi man, 62, turns Abu Dhabi streets into urban oases by planting 200 trees

Abu Dhabi: Growing coconuts, shrubs and flowering plants so they can thrive in the desert climate takes dedication.

That’s why social media users admire Sinan Al Awsi, 62, for his incredible achievement of planting 200 trees in his area.

The Iraqi engineer has lived in the UAE since 1999 and has worked tirelessly for seven years to transform Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Street, also known as Airport Road, into a verdant paradise.

During this period, Al Awsi carefully planted 105 coconut trees, 104 frangipani trees, more than 80 shrubs and more than 80 flowers, embellishing the 500-meter-long vegetation in colorful colors. This remarkable undertaking was born out of his desire to improve his field.

Al Awsi bought a truckload of specially selected soil, installed water pipes, and meticulously planted each tree to realize his vision.

“The Abu Dhabi Municipality has given me great support and allowed me to expand my tree planting activities,” he said gratefully.

Al Awsi’s extraordinary dedication has attracted the attention of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. Al Awsi was overwhelmed with joy and pride at the sublime recognition he received during his meeting with Sheikh Mohammed at Qasr Al Bahr.

In Al Oz’s own words, “Sheikh Mohammad’s reception is a medal on my chest, a great honor that cannot be summed up in a few words. I am very grateful to President Sheikh Mohammad for recognizing me initiative. As an Iraqi, I am proud to contribute to the ecosystem and sustainable development of my adopted home Abu Dhabi.”

engineer. Known for his work on prestigious engineering projects such as the Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Al Awsi has found a new use in the making. In addition to his professional endeavors, he also began his gardening journey, devoting countless hours to nurturing and caring for the trees he planted.

is speaking gulf news, Al Awsi explained that he took the initiative to plant and maintain the tree as a gesture of gratitude to his adopted home, the UAE, which has welcomed and supported him and his family for the past 24 years. His work focused on a 500-meter stretch of Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, better known as Airport Street.

The green makeover includes carefully selected 105 coconut trees (known for their low maintenance requirements and self-cleaning abilities) and 104 frangipani trees (for their stunning color and fragrant aroma). In addition, he decorated the front of his building with 30 trees of different species, such as Cestrum and Thai jasmine.

Caring for trees has become an integral part of Al Awsi’s daily life, and he spends two hours a day — in the morning before work and in the afternoon after get off work. He revealed that the most labor-intensive tasks are usually reserved for Fridays.

The tree planting activities were carried out in two phases. The first phase started in 2005 but had to be suspended in 2012 for housing and workplace related reasons.

However, in 2017, Al Awsi resumed his noble career, which continues to this day.

Al Awsi reviews his selection of coconut trees, emphasizing how effortless they are to maintain. “Coconut trees clean themselves naturally, requiring little intervention beyond regular irrigation and leaf picking. In comparison, date palms require cleaning four times a year, not to mention the extra tasks of pollination and harvesting, ’ he explained.

Al Awsi, 62, graduated from Baghdad University’s Class of 1983 with a degree in Surveying Engineering.

Inspired by his late father, he developed a passion for farming at an early age. He currently resides in Abu Dhabi with his wife, son and three daughters. One of his daughters has a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, another has a bachelor’s degree in architecture, and a third has a bachelor’s degree in dentistry. Al Awsi’s son is studying dentistry in the Emirate of Al Khaimah.

Throughout his career, Al Awsi has contributed to several private companies as a road and bridge consulting engineer. His notable projects include the maintenance of the iconic Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Swehan Bridge, Al Mirfa Bridge and several bridges across the island of Abu Dhabi.

engineer. Sinan Al Awsi’s extraordinary achievements are a testament to his dedication and love for his adopted home Abu Dhabi.

His oasis on Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Street is a shining example of personal initiative and commitment to the environment.