The UAE has launched the world’s largest coral rehabilitation project, reinforcing its commitment to marine sustainability and biodiversity.
Abu Dhabi’s Groundbreaking Initiative
Abu Dhabi, through the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), is planting millions of coral colonies by 2030, covering over 900 hectares of marine habitat. This follows the successful restoration of 1 million coral colonies since 2021, with a 95% survival rate.
These restored coral sites are already showing promising results:
- Fish populations and marine species diversity have increased by over 50%.
- Corals are thriving even in extreme summer heat, demonstrating strong resilience and adaptability to the Gulf’s harsh conditions.
Abu Dhabi Coral Garden Project
In 2025, Abu Dhabi launched the Coral Garden Initiative, which will:
- Deploy 40,000 eco-friendly artificial reefs over 1,200 square kilometres.
- Attract marine life at up to three times the rate of natural reefs.
- Support an estimated five million kilograms of fish annually.
A Nationwide Commitment to Marine Conservation
Other Emirates are also taking bold steps:
- Dubai: Launched the Dubai Reef Project, deploying 20,000 reef modules over 600 square kilometres.
- Sharjah: Introduced artificial reef caves in Khorfakkan to boost marine habitats.
- Northern Emirates: Coral gardens are being developed in Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, and Ajman.
- Fujairah: In collaboration with Fujairah Adventures, 1.5 million coral colonies are being planted along the eastern coast.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE) is coordinating coral conservation efforts across the country, including the cultivation of 24 heat-resilient coral species and a comprehensive national reef mapping project.
The UAE is not just building cities — it’s restoring ecosystems.
These nationwide coral restoration projects are a testament to the country’s dedication to a sustainable future both above and below the water.
