Environment Agency Abu Dhabi And INPEX JODCO Foundation Collaborate On Raptor Conservation Initiative

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and the INPEX JODCO Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance raptor conservation and foster cultural ties between the UAE and Japan. This agreement, under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, builds on a successful pilot project conducted in Japan from 2024 to 2025.

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, and Hiroshi Fujii, Representative Director of the INPEX JODCO Foundation, signed the MoU during the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025. This collaboration aims to protect falcons and other raptors through joint scientific research, habitat protection, and educational outreach across both countries.

The partnership will expand raptor research programmes in Japan and the UAE. In Japan, artificial nests with monitoring cameras will be installed to study breeding behaviour, population dynamics, and habitat use. In the UAE, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital's expertise will support peregrine falcon rehabilitation.

Dr. Al Dhaheri expressed gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Khaled for supporting EAD’s environmental initiatives. She stated that this collaboration extends beyond science by connecting heritage, innovation, and shared respect for nature. "Raptors are symbols of resilience and cultural identity for our nation," she said.

Fujii highlighted the significance of H.H. Sheikh Khaled's patronage in advancing environmental research while fostering mutual understanding between Japan and the UAE. He noted that this new phase allows expanded conservation efforts and celebrates cultural heritage cherished by both nations.

The project will generate data to inform species management guidelines, improve understanding of habitat conditions, population status, breeding patterns, and enhance public awareness through school programmes and exhibitions. It also highlights falconry's importance in Emirati heritage.

Legacy of Falcon Conservation

EAD’s Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme has successfully returned 2,355 falcons to their natural migration ranges since its inception. This initiative reflects Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's legacy and underscores Abu Dhabi’s leadership in conserving biodiversity for environmental sustainability.

The programme seeks to increase falcon populations by addressing threats like human activities, shrinking habitats, unsustainable breeding practices, climate change, and other factors endangering these birds. It aims to ensure both environmental sustainability and human well-being.

By combining Abu Dhabi’s conservation expertise with Japan’s scientific excellence, this partnership aims to protect remarkable species like falcons while uniting knowledge and tradition for sustainability. The collaboration not only safeguards biodiversity but also strengthens cultural ties between both nations.

With inputs from WAM