News
Pioneering Sustainable Technologies and Nature-based Solutions for Carbon Sequestration

Dake Rechsand, a prominent leader in sustainable technologies and nature-based solutions, has set an impressive standard for climate action and sustainable development through its Verra-listed program. With a commitment to innovation, the company has spearheaded revolutionary solutions in water conservation and sustainable farming. In a landmark initiative, Dake Rechsand launched a carbon sequestration program, encompassing 11 million trees in the GCC region, which has been officially listed on VERRA.
In this exclusive interview, we delve into Chandra Dake’s visionary approach to addressing the diverse facets of sustainability. As the CEO of Dake Rechsand, he offers invaluable insights into the company’s groundbreaking initiatives, their impact on climate action, and the transformative potential of their interdisciplinary solutions.
What makes a tech-driven approach to climate actions different from conventional practices? What are the hallmarks of such an approach?
A tech-driven approach induces accountability, transparency, and measurability into climate actions — something conventional practices have largely failed at. Without transparent climate actions, stakeholders are susceptible to “carbon tunnel vision”, a phenomenon where they solely strive for net-zero emissions while ignoring other sustainable development goals. Tech posits “systems thinking”, promoting comprehensive approaches that factor in how different constituents of the complex climate issue interact.
Dake Rechsand exemplifies this approach with its Verra-listed carbon sequestration project, which uses the CDM methodology and other cutting-edge technologies to measure the impact and select plant species suited for UAE’s desert conditions. The project, part of the company’s innovative ‘Ghaba’ afforestation initiative, aims to plant 11 million trees in arid regions, particularly the Middle East. The initiative hopes to overcome tree-planting challenges — high soil salinity, evaporation, seepage, and excessive irrigation requirements — in deserts using the patented Breathable Sand technology.
Furthermore, Dake Rechsand has aligned the ‘Ghaba’ initiative with, and voiced its support for, the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment’s (MOCCAE) Climate Responsible Companies Pledge aimed at mobilizing stakeholders across sectors towards the common cause of Net-zero 2050. MOCCAE’s initiative underscores the need for concerted and measurable efforts from all stakeholders in the public and private sectors and, by extension, promotes a tech-driven approach to climate actions.
The upcoming COP28, while holding global relevance, shines the spotlight on climate-change effects that are more specific to the region. What, according to you, are the issues that need immediate attention?
The region’s climate has always been arid, with scarce water resources and less-than-favourable conditions for agriculture. Climate change has not only aggravated those challenges but also created new ones, including erratic precipitation and floods. As the MENA region has not historically experienced heavy rainfall, the existing stormwater drainage infrastructure is under-equipped to handle excessive runoff. This issue has become increasingly evident in recent years, with countries such as Egypt, Yemen, and Oman witnessing recurring floods.
These events underscore the pressing need for climate adaptation measures alongside mitigation efforts. Technologies serving both these objectives in a single application are particularly desirable. Such interdisciplinary, dual-purpose solutions must be prioritized, not just in MENA, but across the world. They will not only address immediate challenges but also build resilience for the future. At COP28, it is crucial to highlight the issues, stimulate discussions around them, and advocate for the development and deployment of solutions that hold utility in the context of both climate adaptation and mitigation.
Through use cases, explain how interdisciplinary technologies can measurably and positively contribute to UAE’s Net-zero 2050 and sustainability goals.
Interdisciplinary technologies at the nexus of water, energy, and food (WEF) are particularly relevant for UAE’s Net-zero 2050 and sustainability goals. Sectors like agriculture account for disproportionately high water consumption, increasing dependence on carbon-intensive processes such as desalination. And excessive dependence on desalination is counterproductive to net-zero emissions. So, the agriculture sector demands efficiency-driven interventions through interdisciplinary technologies like Breathable Sand.
Breathable Sand, with its selective permeability and retention properties, allows an optimal supply of air and water to the plant and supports ideal growth. On average, it can reduce irrigation by up to 80% while providing optimal yield. So, it has implications for agricultural productivity and, by extension, food security — all while being environmentally responsible, widely accessible, and cost-effective. Cumulatively, with widespread adoption, Breathable Sand can reduce agricultural water footprint, enhance food security, and support the UAE’s journey towards net-zero emissions — characteristic of an interdisciplinary solution.
The potential of this technology extends beyond agriculture. Breathable Sand can form the basis for ‘Sponge Cities’, a carbon-friendly urban design that imparts decentralized rainwater harvesting into public areas such as roads, playgrounds, and parking lots. By capturing, storing, and recycling rainwater, it alleviates floods (adaptation) and reduces the need for carbon-intensive desalination (mitigation). So, Sponge City can contribute to UAE’s water security and Net-zero 2050, qualifying as an interdisciplinary solution.
Provide real-life examples and practical applications of the above-mentioned climate technologies and their positive impact in the context of GCC. Cite case studies, published journals, and evidence-based research, if any.
The adoption of Breathable Sand technology has yielded transformative results in GCC. For example, at Al Ajban Farms, mango, lemon, and orange orchards planted using the technology have shown impressive survival rates with significantly reduced irrigation. In a green drive in Ras Al-Khaimah, Ghaf trees — a species native to the arid regions of the UAE — were successfully transplanted using Breathable Sand. That was a remarkable feat because Ghaf is susceptible to “transplant shock”. As a testament to Breathable Sand’s revolutionary potential, it featured in FAO’s special report(1) on practical solutions for salt-affected soils and the ‘Green Technology Book – 2022′(2) released on the back of COP27.
The abundance of desert areas in the GCC offers an immense opportunity for greening initiatives using Breathable Sand, just as sprawling urban centres do for Sponge Cities. By promoting regenerative woodland ecosystems such as food forests and agroforestry, stakeholders can restore biodiversity, enable biological carbon sequestration, and ramp up climate mitigation. At the same time, the solution offers sustainable pathways to food and water security — issues of great consequence in GCC.
News
Deep Dive Dubai Launches Sunken City Walk, a Cinematic Underwater Experience that Makes Adventure Just a Step Away

Deep Dive Dubai has unveiled its newest attraction for experience seekers with the launch of Sunken City Walk. The guided underwater activity invites guests to step into a cinematic cityscape filled with surreal details. From an underwater swing and motorbike to a café table that looks straight out of a movie scene, this is Dubai’s latest must-try attraction.

The hour-long journey begins with a full briefing and safety overview, followed by guests changing into wetsuits and equipment provided on-site. They then join trained instructors for a 20-minute guided underwater walk through the Sunken City—an accessible, certification-free experience that requires no swimming skills, making it ideal for guests aged 10 and above. Currently offered at an introductory price of AED 600, with an optional 30-second keepsake video for AED 200, the experience is currently available in four daily slots at 11 AM, 12 PM, 2pm, and 3pm.
Jarrod Jablonski, Director, Deep Dive Dubai, said that “With Sunken City Walk, we’re continuing to shape Dubai’s reputation as a city of unforgettable experiences. It’s a unique attraction that reflects Dubai’s spirit, where visitors can discover adventure in ways they never thought possible.”
The launch reflects a global trend that travellers are choosing experiences over possessions. Supporting this, Shamal’s Experience Economy Report stated that 75% of UAE residents are more willing to spend on experiences, with 80% allocating a dedicated monthly budget. The launch also aligns with Dubai’s commitment to strengthening its global tourism appeal. According to Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the city welcomed 9.88 million international visitors in the first half of 2025, a six percent increase year-on-year, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading lifestyle and tourism hubs. Sunken City Walk at Deep Dive Dubai adds a new way for visitors to experience the city’s spirit of reinvention, where adventure is always just a step away.
While Sunken City Walk offers a first taste of underwater adventure, guests can plunge into the incredible world of diving at Deep Dive Dubai, choosing from experiences such as scuba diving, freediving, and specialised diving courses.
News
Free Mineral Water for All: UAE Startup to Launch Groundbreaking Public Hydration Initiative

Staying hydrated just got easier, and greener, thanks to Ourwatr, that’s launching a nationwide free mineral water programme starting June 2025. It’s a first in the region: clean, refreshing mineral water made freely available across the country, delivered through a unique model that blends sustainability, community care, and social impact.
From metro stations and shopping malls to parks and government offices, thousands of chilled bottles of mineral water, sourced locally from Dibba, Fujairah, will soon be within everyone’s reach, every day. Ourwatr’s mission is simple: hydration is a right, not a privilege.
“At Ourwatr, we believe that drinking water should be accessible to all,” says Abhinav Murali, Co-founder.
“That’s why we’re giving away premium mineral water for free, and every bottle supports communities in need. It’s hydration with heart, proudly made right here in the UAE.”
Stamp of UAE quality
All Ourwatr bottles carry the prestigious EQM (Emirates Quality Mark) certification, guaranteeing they meet strict UAE national and international quality standards. When you grab a bottle, you’re assured of top-quality water, safe, pure, refreshing and approved by the country’s standardisation authority.
Mission in a bottle
With temperatures rising across the UAE, especially during summer, access to clean drinking water is more important than ever, for workers, families, children, and the elderly alike.

“In our desert climate, hydration isn’t just healthy; it’s life-saving,” adds co-founder Bharath Mohan.
“Each bottle we provide is a small act of kindness toward our community.”
Ourwatr is more than just a startup, it’s a mission in a bottle. Launched by three young, UAE-based entrepreneurs, the idea was sparked by a simple but powerful observation: access to free, convenient hydration isn’t always a given.
Wanting to change that, the trio built a business with heart at its core. The team is also in talks with various UAE charitable organisations and government agencies to expand its reach and impact. For every bottle distributed, a portion will be donated to local charities, turning everyday hydration into a meaningful act of giving.
A Model Built on Purpose and Sustainability
Ourwatr isn’t just about water, it’s about doing good. Instead of selling to consumers, the company partners with brands and organisations who cover the production and distribution costs. In return, sponsors co-brand the bottles, using them as a platform to share positive messages and shared values, while making a real difference.
“Sustainability isn’t just about less waste, it’s about creating lasting, meaningful change,” explains Sharat Nair, Co-founder.
The bottles are crafted from recyclable materials, aligning with the UAE’s zero-waste goals and green agenda.
Backing UAE Vision 2030
Ourwatr’s initiative supports the UAE’s Vision 2030 goals around health, sustainability, and quality of life. The startup is already collaborating with local authorities to expand water access and reach as many people as possible.
More than just water, Ourwatr is delivering hope, equality, and care, one bottle at a time.
Home Integrator
Ardee Developments Announces Sales Launch for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island

Ardee Developments has announced the launch of sales for Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island, its highly anticipated branded residential offering in partnership with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.
Official sales will commence on 1 June 2025 with expression of interest starting 15 May 2025, marking a major milestone in the evolution of Ardee Al Marjan Island, the company’s flagship, multi-billion-dirham development set to redefine coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah.
Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island will comprise 523 upscale residences — including apartments, townhouses, and sea villas — ranging from one to six bedrooms and spanning 86 m² to over 300 m². Every home is thoughtfully designed to embody refined beachfront living, with uninterrupted sea views and elegant interiors that reflect timeless sophistication.
Bringing together the prestige of the Fairmont brand with the ease of resort-style living, residents will enjoy exclusive access to a private beach, the Fairmont Fit Fitness Centre and Studio, family & kids pool, adults sky pool & terrace & bar, dedicated boardroom and private dining room, resident’s owners lounge as well as wellness facilities including treatment rooms, screening room, games room, kids club and seamless connectivity to the adjacent Fairmont resort.
Further enriching the offering is a tailored suite of à la carte services. From in-home catering and private chef experiences to childcare, dog walking, housekeeping, personal concierge support, and a home maintenance program while residents are away, every element is designed to simplify and enhance everyday living. In addition, residents will enjoy exclusive access to the Accor Owner Benefits Program. This includes Diamond status in the Accor Live Limitless (ALL) programme, the ability to gift Gold status to family and friends, and VIP privileges at over 5,700 hotels and resorts around the world.
With prices starting from AED 2.49 Million, Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island offers an exclusive opportunity for discerning buyers seeking long-term value, effortless luxury, and a lifestyle defined by exceptional quality in one of the region’s most iconic coastal destinations.
Beyond the residences, guests were given an exclusive look at the next phase of the Ardee Al Marjan Island masterplan. The development is progressing into a fully integrated coastal destination that blends residences, hospitality, leisure, retail, and entertainment on an unprecedented scale.
Key components of the masterplan include branded and serviced residences, private villas, townhouses, a flagship luxury hotel, and a vibrant retail and F&B promenade. The destination will also feature a variety of curated lifestyle offerings — from wellness hubs and gaming lounges to family entertainment zones and waterfront experiences — all designed to create a future-ready, immersive community.
Prioritizing walkability, nature access, and sea connectivity, the project will boast expansive green spaces, direct beach access, and panoramic views, setting a new standard for contemporary island living in Ras Al Khaimah.
Vishal Mehta, CEO of Ardee Developments, added: “As we prepare to open sales of Fairmont Residences Al Marjan Island this June, we are proud to invite buyers into a community that reflects excellence at every level. In partnership with Al Marjan Island, Fairmont Hotels, and Christie’s International Real Estate, we are shaping a new era of luxury coastal living in Ras Al Khaimah — one defined by world-class design, hospitality, and lifestyle, brought together in a truly integrated destination.”
To support global sales efforts, Ardee Developments has appointed Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah as the exclusive master agency. Christie’s will lead GCC and international outreach and client servicing, ensuring a seamless buyer journey.
“This is a vibrant and integrated coastal lifestyle community that combines natural beauty, unparalleled hospitality and leisure not seen in the area before,” said Jackie Johns and Dinesh Chhatwani, Managing Partners at Christie’s International Real Estate Ras Al Khaimah. “Ras Al Khaimah’s momentum as a global hospitality and investment hub, and its rapidly growing real estate market, makes it the ideal launchpad for Ardee Developments to execute its grand vision.”
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