Hamdan Bin Zayed Chairs EAD Board Meeting To Review World Conservation Congress Preparations

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), led the second Board of Directors’ meeting for 2025. He commended EAD's efforts in embedding environmental values within health, economy, and society pillars in the emirate. His Highness emphasised EAD's role in safeguarding the environment and its vision for ensuring Abu Dhabi's ecological prosperity for future generations.

The meeting took place at Al Nakheel Palace with notable attendees including Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi, Vice Chairman of EAD; Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi; Major General Ahmed Saif Bin Zaitoon Al Muhairi, Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police; Musabih Al Kaabi from ADNOC; Nasser Mohammed Al Mansouri, Under-Secretary of the Ruler’s Representative Court in Al Dhafra Region; Issa Hamad Boushehab, Advisor to the Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region; and Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD.

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During the meeting, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan was updated on EAD Strategy 2026-2030. This strategy aims to bolster Abu Dhabi's future by focusing on key areas like climate change mitigation and efficient natural resource use. The strategy is designed to ensure ongoing environmental prosperity and readiness to tackle future challenges, enhancing Abu Dhabi's global reputation as a leader in environmental initiatives.

EAD also showcased its air quality prediction system using advanced algorithms. This system can forecast air pollution levels, including transboundary pollutants, up to 72 hours ahead by simulating sandstorms accurately. Additionally, a project monitoring unauthorised waste disposal sites in Al Ain Region was highlighted. Using artificial intelligence and satellite images, 150 illegal waste dumping sites were identified. EAD aims to reduce such incidents by 90% across the emirate by 2041.

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan praised EAD’s preparations for hosting the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi this October. Supported by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and organised by IUCN with MOCCAE's backing, this event marks its first occurrence in the Gulf region. The congress will feature 500 sessions and attract around 10,000 participants from over 140 countries.

The congress reflects President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s commitment to environmental action and biodiversity conservation as crucial elements for sustainable development. Hosting this event underscores the UAE's dedication to protecting natural resources.

Marine Biodiversity Efforts

Updates on marine biodiversity projects were also shared with H.H. Sheikh Hamdan. The aquaculture project in Dalma has achieved significant results using artificial intelligence technologies for the first time in the region. It successfully produces four types of local fish: Safi Arabi, Qabit, Shaari, and Shaam with a capacity reaching up to 100 tonnes.

The Abu Dhabi Coral Gardens initiative was another highlight where over 5,000 artificial reef modules have been installed so far. The goal is to reach 40,000 modules by 2030 while more than 3,000 natural corals have been placed on these modules to boost marine biodiversity.

Efforts are underway to preserve geological formations known as Al Brooq through field surveys documenting 924 formations thus far. These actions contribute significantly towards conserving Abu Dhabi’s natural heritage.

The UAE secured hosting rights for this congress through a bid submitted jointly by MOCCAE and EAD on behalf of its government. This achievement further cements their commitment towards advancing global conservation efforts within their region.

With inputs from WAM