Abu Dhabi Extends Environmental Protection for Native Species Beyond Nature Reserves

Abu Dhabi's environmental authority has broadened the safeguards for species and habitats included on its protected list. The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) announced on Saturday that the protection of these species now extends to all habitats, including those located outside of designated nature reserves.

The resolution was passed by Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, Ruler’s Representative of Al Dhafra Region and chairman of the agency, with the goal of strengthening the preservation of species and habitats throughout Abu Dhabi, conserving biodiversity, and promoting long-term sustainability.

According to the agency, this initiative forms part of broader efforts to enhance biodiversity protection, safeguard native species and their natural environments, and ensure the sustainability of ecosystems for future generations. The resolution establishes an integrated framework covering terrestrial and marine species, habitat sustainability, areas designated for biodiversity conservation, and the restoration of degraded habitats and affected species across the emirate.

These provisions apply to all terrestrial and marine environments—including important biodiversity areas situated outside officially protected zones—as well as all native and migratory species listed by EAD. However, invasive and non-native species are excluded from the new measures.

In light of the announcement, EAD has urged all community members, along with government and private institutions, to cooperate and comply with the established controls and procedures to support nature conservation and biodiversity.