Abu Dhabi officially launched the Coral Garden initiative, the largest project of its kind in the Middle East, to aid in the restoration of marine life and protect biodiversity in the waters of the UAE. The goal of the project is to create massive coral gardens over an area of 1,200 square kilometers in the skyline, with the installation of 40,000 artificial reef modules made from ecologically clean materials to support coral growth and enhance fish stocks in the area. "The protection of the marine environment and increasing its sustainability is an essential part of the UAE's vision for ensuring a sustainable future for future generations. The Abu Dhabi Coral Gardens initiative embodies Abu Dhabi's commitment to implementing innovative nature conservation solutions for marine biodiversity protection, rehabilitation, and restoring natural resources in conjunction with plans for economic development," stated His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Representative of the ruler in the Al-Dhafra region, Chairman of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi.
Artificial reef modules will be planted with live coral fragments, grown in the nursery of the Environment Agency for Conservation of the Environment, using species of coral capable of thriving at elevated temperatures. This will help strengthen the region's ability to cope with the consequences of climate change on marine life.
Coral gardens will also serve as breeding zones for the release of farmed fish for natural growth and reproduction, with the goal of producing over 5 million kilograms of fish annually. According to officials, the initiative will support ecotourism, protect the coastline, and improve natural biodiversity, helping establish Abu Dhabi as a regional leader in nature conservation solutions based on nature.
