Dubai will join cities around the globe by switching off its lights for Earth Hour 2014, it has been confirmed.

The dazzling lights of the Burj Khalifa will be turned off and darkness will reign in Business Bay from 8.30pm on March 29 in a bid to raise awareness of climate change.

Those planning to hit the shops in Bay Avenue mall that night should come equipped with (eco-friendly) torches – the complex will also be plunged into darkness when the clock hits 8.30pm to mark the occasion.

DEWA has teamed up with Dubai Properties Group to promote the global event, and a symbolic Earth Hour walk will take place on the night.

In the build-up to the big switch-off, people can enjoy a laser projection show, workshops and performances along Bay Avenue from 5pm.

Dubai Properties Group has called on its 200,000 plus residents to do their bit for Earth Hour too by switching off unnecessary lights and electrical equipment for the hour.

The annual Earth Hour is organised by the World Wildlife Fund together with the Emirates Wildlife Society, which works to promote nature conservation within the UAE. It aims to offer a simple way for people to demonstrate that they care about the planet.

The event is gaining momentum in the UAE with each passing year – in 2011 all seven emirates participated in Earth Hour for the first time.

The event has seen iconic UAE landmarks including the Burj Khalifa, the Burj al Arab, and Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque go dark in the past.