Introduction
Across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain, large areas of farmland and low-rise buildings are being cleared to make way for new housing and commercial developments. But behind the corrugated roofs and underground pipe networks of these aging agricultural structures lies a silent hazard: asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).
Unless properly identified and removed, asbestos fibers released during demolition can pose severe health risks to workers, surrounding communities, and the future residents of these new developments.
Where Asbestos is Found in Farm and Agricultural Buildings
Before the 2006 asbestos ban in the UAE, asbestos was widely used in low-cost agricultural and labor structures for its durability, fire resistance, and affordability. Today, ACMs are still commonly found in:
Asbestos cement roof sheeting used for animal sheds, storage, and farm workshops.
Asbestos cement wall panels and cladding in labor camps and temporary stores.
Asbestos cement pipework for water supply, storm drainage, and sewerage.
Buried asbestos cement pipes that remain hidden beneath farmland and redevelopment sites.
Asbestos cement debris scattered across the desert floor
The Risks of Disturbing Asbestos
When ACMs are broken, cut, or bulldozed, they release microscopic asbestos fibers into the air. Inhalation of these fibers can cause life-threatening diseases such as:
Mesothelioma – a rare and aggressive cancer.
Asbestosis – chronic scarring of the lungs.
Lung cancer – significantly higher risk among exposed workers.
These diseases may only appear decades after exposure, but once diagnosed, they are often fatal.
Asbestos cement wall panels located at an Abu Dhabi based farm, UAE
Redevelopment Pressures in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
The current property boom in Dubai and Abu Dhabi has accelerated land clearance in rural and peri-urban areas. Bulldozing of old farm sites and labor camps is happening daily to make way for high-value residential and mixed-use projects.
Without asbestos surveys, excavators and demolition crews risk cutting into underground asbestos cement pipes or shattering roof panels—releasing fibers directly into the air and soil. This puts both workers and nearby communities at risk, and can also cause costly project delays when authorities intervene.
How to Manage Asbestos Safely
To ensure compliance and safety, redevelopment projects must follow international best practice and UAE regulations:
Conduct an asbestos survey before any demolition.
Engage licensed Asbestos Removal Contractors (ARCs) for all abatement works.
Ensure supervision by an Asbestos Supervising Consultant (ASC) accredited by the competent authority.
Package ACMs correctly – double wrapped, sealed, and clearly labelled.
Dispose at an approved hazardous waste facility (e.g., Tadweer in Abu Dhabi, Dubai Municipality sites).
Failing to follow these steps not only endangers health but can result in regulatory penalties, legal liabilities, and reputational damage.
Conclusion
As the UAE transforms farmland and low-rise camps into modern communities, asbestos remains a hidden but preventable danger. Proper surveys, safe removal, and compliant disposal are critical to protecting workers, residents, and the environment.
If you are planning redevelopment or demolition of farm buildings, labor camps, or agricultural stores in the UAE, contact Anthesis Consulting Middle East today. Our expert team provides:
Comprehensive asbestos surveys and sampling
Risk assessments and management plans
Supervision of licensed removal contractors
Air monitoring and validation
Stay compliant. Protect your workforce. Safeguard your project.
If you have any Asbestos-related concerns or require asbestos-free certification for products or projects, contact Anthesis Consulting Middle East today.
Charles Faulkner (Head of Environment, Health and Safety, and Asbestos Team Leader)
Phone: +971 (0) 50 5541 320
Email: asbestos@anthesisgroup.com
