Emirates Nature–WWF Marks 25 Years Of Conservation Inspired By Sheikh Zayed's Vision

This year marks a significant milestone for the UAE's environmental efforts as Emirates Nature–WWF celebrates 25 years of conservation achievements. Founded in honour of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the organisation continues to follow his vision that nature and humanity are deeply connected. His environmental philosophy laid the foundation for sustainable development in the UAE, integrating ecological care with economic and social growth.

Sheikh Zayed's legacy embedded conservation, responsible resource management, and philanthropy into national progress. In 1997, he became the first Head of State to receive WWF’s Golden Panda Award for global conservation contributions. This recognition led to establishing Emirates Nature–WWF, the first WWF affiliate office in the Middle East, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to local and global conservation efforts.

The organisation has worked across the UAE to protect ecosystems, encourage climate action, and improve food and water security. Initiatives such as blue carbon assessments, restored falaj systems, climate-smart farming, and eco-tourism models highlight a shared dedication to community-driven action. These efforts align with the UAE’s Year of Community theme.

To commemorate this 25-year journey, Emirates Nature–WWF is hosting the WWF Asia Pacific (AP25) Regional Conference in the UAE for the first time. The event brought together over 30 countries to plan a unified approach towards nature-positive development and climate resilience across Asia Pacific. Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi stated that this milestone reflects a deep-rooted national commitment to environmental stewardship.

The conference opened with a gala dinner attended by high-level guests including UAE ministers and global philanthropists. Under Erth Zayed Philanthropies' patronage, it emphasised collective giving's importance for long-term impact. Themed "Mobilizing Partnerships to Shape Disaster and Climate Resilience Across Asia Pacific," it featured keynote speeches and dialogues on strategic philanthropy.

Key Voices at the Event

The event highlighted cross-sector collaboration's role in driving scalable solutions. Distinguished leaders like Amna Al Dahak, Razan Al Mubarak, Dr Adil Najam, and Nena Stoiljkovic participated in discussions exploring climate resilience against natural disasters. Laila Mostafa Abdullatif noted that solutions must be transformational as challenges grow more complex.

Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak expressed that "The UAE remains firmly committed to addressing climate change and environmental protection." She emphasised cross-sector partnerships' importance for creating a resilient future. As Emirates Nature-WWF celebrates its 25th anniversary, it reflects on its ambitious journey led by commitment to ecosystem preservation.

Continuing Sheikh Zayed's Vision

Laila Mostafa Abdullatif stated that they remain rooted in the UAE while catalysing action across borders. Guided by Sheikh Zayed's vision of inseparable nature and humanity, they aim to bridge local innovation with regional partnerships for scalable solutions benefiting people and planet.

This event affirmed Abu Dhabi’s emerging role as a hub for strategic philanthropy and nature-based solutions. It marked a new chapter for Emirates Nature–WWF as a regional catalyst fostering powerful partnerships across Asia Pacific to accelerate impact on climate, nature, and communities.

With inputs from WAM