An urban background sampling campaign was performed to measure PM2.5 pollutants in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. Gravimetric analysis, smoke stain reflectometry, XRF and XRD measurements and analysis were performed on samples collected on 47 mm Teflon filters following international sampling procedures. The PM2.5 amounts are within WHO limits in the absence of natural dust storms. Elemental composition and phase identification of major pollutants were determined. In the absence of dust storms,

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... fossil fuel burning originating from traffic and energy generation are the major sources of PM2.5 in the form of secondary phases formed from gaseous precursors. Primary pollutants such as quartz, calcite and gypsum and sea salts are the main pollutants during dusty days. Natural sources such as sea salts and crustal materials also contribute to PM2.5 both as primary sources and through interaction with anthropogenic emissions to form new secondary phases depending on factors such as the ambient conditions and primary pollutants. Integration of different techniques provided us with a better understanding of sources of pollutants and their interaction during their transport in the atmosphere. Reduction of major secondary pollutants in PM2.5 has already been observed through various clean energy initiatives in the country and by implementing green building codes and enforcing strict regulations on industrial emissions.