The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is at the forefront of global efforts to combat desertification and drought, redefining the relationship between humanity and the environment. Through innovative approaches, the UAE transforms escalating climatic challenges into actionable pathways for sustainable development and environmental security.
Innovative Strategies for Combating Desertification
The UAE leads the way in addressing environmental issues with a focus on proactive solutions, using modern technologies and scientific advancements to rehabilitate ecosystems, boost vegetation cover, and safeguard natural resources. This strategic vision transcends traditional responses and aims to create sustainable frameworks for tackling climate challenges.
On June 17 each year, the UAE joins the world in celebrating the “World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought,” emphasizing its commitment to meet the targets outlined in the National Strategy for Combating Desertification 2022-2030. Key goals include enhancing local production systems by 40%, rehabilitating at least 80% of degraded lands, and increasing the efficiency of water consumption while raising the ratio of recycled water use to 60%.
Comprehensive National Initiatives
The strategy encompasses 33 major initiatives and an action agenda through 2030, focusing on five key areas: preserving ecosystems and improving the condition of arid and semi-arid lands, mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts, enhancing education and capacity-building at the national level, embracing modern technologies and integrating scientific research, and fostering partnerships across national, regional, and international levels.
To combat land degradation and address desertification, the UAE has implemented several initiatives, including the launch of the National Biodiversity Strategy, the Blue Carbon project, aerial mapping for agricultural areas, the “Our Palm Initiative,” and plans to support organic farming.
Significant Advances in Water Management
The UAE has made significant strides in constructing dams that provide irrigation water for forests and agricultural lands. Notably, the dam system captured approximately 72 million cubic meters of water during the heavy rainfall in April. This network includes 109 dams managed by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, with a total storage capacity exceeding 90 million cubic meters, demonstrating an 83% fill rate.
Furthermore, research centers and experimental stations have been established to focus on combating desertification and monitoring climate variability. The UAE has also launched a specialized international center for saline agriculture to conduct research on salt-tolerant plants and expand their cultivation.
Adopting Climate-Resilient Agricultural Practices
Recently, the UAE announced the “National Agricultural Initiative for Climate-Smart Crops,” a strategic move led by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in collaboration with the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture. This initiative focuses on four strategic crops well-adapted to the Emirati environment, particularly millet and sorghum, which are practical solutions for water scarcity, as they consume up to 50% less water than traditional grains.
Additionally, the Ministry has implemented a project employing drones for comprehensive surveys of agricultural areas nationwide, enhancing the restoration of degraded lands and protecting existing agricultural spaces. Drones have been utilized to sow and cultivate local tree seeds, such as “ghaf” and “samar,” in various locations throughout the country.
In its second report to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change regarding nationally determined contributions, the UAE raised its ambitious target for planting mangroves from 30 million to 100 million trees by 2030, significantly bolstering soil protection and natural habitats while enhancing resilience against climate change challenges.
Expanding Natural Reserves
The UAE’s expansion of natural reserves plays a crucial role in addressing desertification and drought issues. The number of designated reserves has risen to 55 terrestrial and marine protected areas, covering approximately 19.04% of the country. In April, a decree was issued to establish the “Wadi Al Qura” reserve in Sharjah.
The UAE’s Cloud Seeding Research Program has greatly enhanced the country’s capabilities in ensuring water security and sustaining natural resources while confronting drought and desertification challenges. Since its inception, the program has played a pioneering role in supporting scientific research and innovation, establishing the UAE as a global center for developing rainfall enhancement technologies.
Globally, the UAE has signed several agreements to combat desertification, including the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in 1994. The country has hosted and participated in numerous international and regional meetings to address this pressing environmental issue.
In November 2022, the UAE joined the International Drought Resilience Alliance (IDRA), initiated by Spain and Senegal, with support from the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. This coalition aims to foster momentum and mobilize resources for actions designed to build resilience against drought in countries, cities, and communities.
Through these proactive measures, the UAE is reshaping how the world responds to the daunting challenges of desertification and drought, setting an example for sustainable environmental stewardship.