Abu Dhabi Increases Nature Reserves to 20% of Land Under Sheikh Mohamed’s Directive

Expansion of Protected Areas in Abu Dhabi

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has announced an ambitious initiative to expand nature reserves across Abu Dhabi, aiming to increase the total protected area to cover 20% of the emirate’s land. This directive solidifies the UAE’s position as a leader in environmental protection and sustainability on a global scale.

The decision is aligned with the objectives of the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, reflecting the UAE’s ongoing commitment to enhance biodiversity and balance sustainable development with the preservation of natural heritage.

Management and Scope of New Reserves

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi will take charge of managing the newly designated nature reserves, which encompass an impressive area of 4,581 square kilometers. This expansion will incorporate the new reserves into the established Zayed Protected Areas Network.

Upon completion of this enhancement, Abu Dhabi will boast a total of 26 protected areas. This includes 13 terrestrial and six marine reserves, resulting in an extended total of 22,821 square kilometers dedicated to conservation efforts.

This initiative is strategically scheduled to coincide with the UAE’s historic hosting of the IUCN World Conservation Congress in 2025, marking the first time this significant global event will take place in the region from October 9 to 15, 2025.

Creation and Expansion of Reserves

The new initiative will introduce three terrestrial reserves: Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Reserve, Liwa Groundwater Reservoir Reserve, and Ghaf Natural Reserve. Additionally, the Qasr Al Sarab Reserve will undergo expansion, further emphasizing the UAE’s commitment to conserving its unique ecosystems.

Moreover, the establishment of two new marine reserves—Abu Al Abyad Marine Reserve and Sir Bani Yas and Desert Islands Marine Reserve—highlights the government’s focus on protecting marine biodiversity. The Ras Ghanada Marine Reserve will also see significant expansion, bolstering efforts to safeguard marine habitats.

Commitment to Environmental Sustainability

Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi’s Board of Directors, stated: “The directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan reflect our wise leadership’s vision for environmental protection and sustainability. This expansion will safeguard biodiversity and ecosystems for future generations and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s global standing as a model for environmental stewardship.”

Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi, Vice Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to biodiversity conservation. He remarked that “expanding nature reserves will support innovative programmes for wildlife preservation and ensure the sustainability of our natural environment.”

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, emphasized the transformative nature of this expansion. “This marks a milestone in Abu Dhabi’s environmental journey and reflects the UAE’s dedication to achieving the Global Biodiversity Framework 2030 goals, including the 30×30 initiative. It reinforces the leadership’s vision of balancing sustainable development with natural heritage conservation,” she noted.

Aligning with National Biodiversity Goals

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi has indicated that this expansion supports the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031. This strategy outlines a comprehensive vision focused on nature conservation and climate action, pivotal for the UAE’s future environmental policies.

Key pillars of the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031 include:

• Protecting and monitoring critical biodiversity areas.
• Rehabilitating degraded terrestrial and marine ecosystems.
• Minimizing the impact of climate change and disaster risks on biodiversity.
• Enhancing ecosystem resilience across the UAE.

The strategic efforts aim to position Abu Dhabi as a benchmark for biodiversity protection, ensuring that its ecosystems can thrive for generations to come.

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