In a significant step towards environmental conservation, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, has issued Decision No. (2) of 2026. This decision is focused on the protection of species and habitats within the emirate, aiming to enhance their safeguarding, preserve biodiversity, and ensure sustainability. Central to this initiative are effective measures designed to protect and conserve ecosystems, thereby achieving a balance between environmental protection and sustainable development.
Objectives of the Decision
The decision is part of the ongoing efforts by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi to bolster biodiversity conservation and protect local species along with their natural habitats for future generations. It falls within a broader framework of environmental legislation and regulations that the agency is developing in alignment with Abu Dhabi’s strategic goals for nature protection, ecosystem restoration, and biodiversity conservation.
Comprehensive Framework for Protection
This decision lays down a comprehensive framework for safeguarding both terrestrial and marine species and their habitats. It emphasizes the sustainability of habitats, the preservation of biodiversity protection areas, and the restoration and rehabilitation of degraded habitats and affected species in the emirate. The provisions apply to all terrestrial and marine habitats, including significant biodiversity protection areas outside conservation reserves. Furthermore, it encompasses all local and migratory species identified within the agency’s approved lists, while invasive and alien species are exempt from these regulations.
Regulations and Environmental Standards
The decision incorporates a series of regulations and measures concerning species and habitat protection. This includes the organisation of related activities and the establishment of environmental standards necessary to mitigate adverse impacts on biodiversity.
Abu Dhabi’s Commitment to Environmental Legislation
The issuance of this decision reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to advancing its legislative and environmental frameworks, fostering sustainable management of natural resources, and protecting ecologically valuable species and habitats. This supports the emirate’s objectives in building a more sustainable and environmentally resilient future.
Call for Community Engagement
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi has urged all community members, as well as governmental and private entities, to collaborate and adhere to the regulations and procedures outlined in the decision. Such cooperation is essential for the conservation of nature and the maintenance of biodiversity.