Abu Dhabi steps up environmental monitoring to safeguard national waters

Abu Dhabi's Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is reinforcing environmental monitoring to safeguard the nation's waters, marking its 30th anniversary. Secretary General Dr Shaikha Al Dhaheri traces the emirate's environmental story back to ancient times when survival depended on understanding the limits of the natural world. The agency's roots date back to the establishment of the National Avian Research Centre in 1989, which focused on conserving the houbara bustard and protecting cultural heritage.

Dr Al Dhaheri highlights Abu Dhabi's Sustainable Fisheries Index, which has improved significantly, going from 8% in 2018 to above 80% by 2025. Restrictions were introduced to protect fish stocks and marine species such as turtles, dugongs, and greater flamingos. These measures were designed to compensate affected fishermen and bring them on board the conservation journey.

The agency's marine environment restoration efforts have been extensive, with nearly 75 million mangroves planted and restored and a major coral restoration program cultivating about 1.8 million coral fragments. Dr Al Dhaheri acknowledges the challenges presented by the harsh Arabian Gulf environment but believes Abu Dhabi can lead climate change efforts.

In addition to marine conservation, Abu Dhabi faces ongoing challenges in air quality management and groundwater management. The agency monitors air pollution sources and enforces strict environmental permits for coastal developments. Dr Al Dhaheri emphasizes the need for regional collaboration to address pollution originating outside the emirate, stressing that environmental regulation is crucial due to Abu Dhabi's significant coastal and land development.