Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), has issued Decree No. (6) of 2025, launching a comprehensive biodiversity policy designed to conserve the emirate’s natural ecosystems and ensure the sustainable use of its environmental resources.
The announcement was made during the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi.
The EAD will work with relevant entities to implement the policy’s instruments according to a defined timeframe under the decree. The agency will also “monitor and analyse the impacts of implementation using systematic procedures,” ensuring the policy’s objectives are achieved.
The policy was developed in collaboration with government departments, private institutions and local communities, and is fully aligned with national sustainability frameworks.
The policy focuses on conserving terrestrial and marine ecosystems and addressing pressures such as habitat loss, climate change and unsustainable resource use. Its main goal is to “strengthen legislative and regulatory frameworks,” “promote nature-based solutions,” and “raise community awareness on the importance of biodiversity and ecosystem services for human health, well-being and resource sustainability.”
“This policy is a major step towards achieving the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031. It strengthens Abu Dhabi’s leadership in ecosystem protection and sustainability, aligns with UAE directives and international commitments, and supports the Environmental Centennial 2071 goals.” EAD Secretary General Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri said.
Abu Dhabi’s diverse ecosystems are central to its environmental identity, as it is home to mangrove forests, coral reefs, islands and sand dunes.
The policy calls for enhanced ecosystem resilience, cross-sector partnerships and the use of modern technologies to rehabilitate habitats.