UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Directs Expansion Of Protected Natural Areas In Abu Dhabi

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has directed an expansion of nature reserves in Abu Dhabi to cover 20% of the emirate's land. This initiative aligns with the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 programme, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation.

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi will oversee these newly designated reserves, adding 4,581 square kilometres to the existing Zayed Protected Areas Network. Currently, this network includes 13 terrestrial and six marine reserves. With the new additions, the total number of protected areas will increase to 26, covering 22,821 square kilometres.

The expansion includes three new terrestrial reserves: Al Wathba Fossil Dunes Reserve, Liwa Groundwater Reservoir Reserve, and Ghaf Natural Reserve. Additionally, the Qasr Al Sarab Reserve will be expanded. Two new marine reserves will also be established: Abu Al Abyad Marine Reserve and Sir Bani Yas and Desert Islands Marine Reserve. The Ras Ghanada Marine Reserve will see an expansion as well.

This announcement coincides with the UAE hosting the IUCN World Conservation Congress for the first time in the region. Organised by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, and IUCN, it took place from 9-15 October 2025 at ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi.

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan stated that these directives reflect a vision for environmental protection and sustainability. He emphasised that this expansion will safeguard biodiversity for future generations while enhancing Abu Dhabi’s global reputation as a model for environmental stewardship.

Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi highlighted that these directives reaffirm the UAE’s commitment to biodiversity conservation across the emirate. Expanding nature reserves supports innovative wildlife preservation programmes and ensures natural environment sustainability.

Strategic Environmental Goals

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri noted this marks a significant milestone in Abu Dhabi’s environmental journey. It reflects dedication to achieving Global Biodiversity Framework 2030 goals, including the 30×30 initiative. This reinforces leadership's vision of balancing sustainable development with natural heritage conservation.

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi confirmed that this decision supports the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031. This strategy presents a comprehensive vision for nature conservation and climate action, focusing on six key pillars such as protecting critical biodiversity areas and rehabilitating degraded ecosystems.

This strategic move aims to minimise climate change impacts on biodiversity while enhancing its resilience, ensuring a sustainable future for Abu Dhabi's natural environment.

With inputs from WAM