Hamdan Bin Zayed Unveils Comprehensive Biodiversity Policy For Abu Dhabi's Ecosystems

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), has enacted Decree No. (6) of 2025. This decree introduces a biodiversity policy aimed at preserving Abu Dhabi's natural resources and ecosystem sustainability. The announcement aligns with the IUCN World Conservation Congress, hosted in the emirate until 15 October, underscoring Abu Dhabi's global leadership in environmental protection.

The biodiversity policy is designed to tackle significant challenges by safeguarding natural ecosystems and conserving habitats vital for local flora and fauna. It aims to enhance legislative frameworks, implement nature-based solutions, and boost community awareness about biodiversity's importance. The policy highlights ecosystems' role in supporting human health, community well-being, and resource sustainability within Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi boasts diverse ecosystems like plains, sand dunes, coasts, islands, coral reefs, mangroves, and mountains that support unique species. These ecosystems face growing threats requiring sustainable interventions. The policy outlines measures to bolster ecosystem resilience through partnerships across sectors and modern technology use to protect and rehabilitate these environments.

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi will collaborate with relevant entities to implement the policy within a specified timeframe. They will monitor its impact using systematic procedures to achieve its objectives effectively. This collaborative approach ensures alignment with national policies while addressing biodiversity sector challenges such as habitat loss, climate change, and unsustainable resource use.

Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, stated: "This policy is an important step towards achieving the general framework of the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031. It also strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading entity in the field of protecting and sustaining ecosystems." The policy aligns with UAE directives and international commitments while contributing to Environmental Centennial 2071 goals by preserving habitats and enhancing ecosystem sustainability.

The policy development involved cooperation between Abu Dhabi Government agencies, private sector institutions, and local community segments. This collaboration ensures comprehensive alignment with national strategies while considering current biodiversity challenges like habitat degradation and climate change impacts.

Community Engagement and Awareness

Raising environmental awareness is a key component of the policy. It seeks to educate communities about biodiversity's significance for food security, climate change mitigation, and quality of life preservation. By fostering joint action among stakeholders, the policy aims to rehabilitate affected habitats, conserve endangered species, and improve scientific knowledge on local biodiversity for a sustainable future.

The decree mandates EAD to work closely with concerned parties to follow up on policy instruments' implementation according to set timelines. This includes overseeing impact analysis through organised procedures that contribute to achieving policy goals effectively.

This strategic initiative confirms Abu Dhabi's dedication to environmental stewardship by addressing major threats through comprehensive measures aimed at protecting both terrestrial and marine habitats essential for sustaining local plant and animal life.

With inputs from WAM