Jane Goodall’s Pollinator Garden opens in Dubai

Dubai: A one-of-its-kind Pollinator Garden, an ecological sanctuary, officially opened at Terra in Dubai’s Expo City today, in the presence of Dr Jane Goodall, the global conservationist behind the initiative.

Terra, the sustainability hub, also announced the launch of the 100 Hives, 100 Schools initiative along with Jane Goodall’s Pollinator Garden. The programme aims to install beehives in 100 schools across the UAE, providing students with hands-on learning experiences about the role of pollinators.

“Jane Goodall’s Pollinator Garden is a powerful symbol of how we, as stewards of the earth, must all play a part in ensuring a healthy future for our planet,” said Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education and Culture at Expo City Dubai.

“This garden reflects Terra’s ongoing commitment to fostering sustainability and biodiversity while raising awareness of the essential role of pollinators, particularly bees, in supporting the balance of our ecosystems. This is in line with Dubai’s leadership in championing conservation and its dedication to safeguarding ecosystems as a cornerstone of a sustainable future.”

The garden’s journey began in 2019 with the discovery of a small hive of 2,000 UAE-native apis mellifera bees at Terra.

Working closely with the Beekeepers Foundation, these bees were nurtured and reintroduced to the garden in October 2024. The population has grown to over 30,000 bees across two thriving hives. The hives, integrated into Terra’s pollinator-friendly ecosystem, highlight the importance of supporting native species and biodiversity, said Marjan.

Dr Goodall said, “I am deeply moved to see this garden come to life as it embodies the critical connection between humans and the natural world. Bees are our world’s unsung heroes, and we must continue to support and protect them. This garden will play a role in raising awareness of the importance of pollinators amongst the public.

"The garden also underscores the deep partnership between Terra and the global initiative Roots & Shoots UAE and our common mission to empower the next generation to respect, protect and restore the environment. By engaging young minds, we can nurture environmental stewards who will lead the way in creating a more sustainable and harmonious world.”

Home to two thriving beehives, each housing over 15,000 UAE-native Apis mellifera bees.

Has native plant species chosen for their symbiotic relationship with pollinators

Haven for local wildlife, including bees, butterflies, and birds.

Its bee colony, originally discovered in 2019 at Terra while under construction with 2,000 native bees, now has 30,000 bees.