Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed reviews Abu Dhabi environmental progress, biodiversity initiatives

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), has reviewed the agency's latest environmental performance and conservation programmes during its second board meeting of 2026.

The meeting, held at Al Nakheel Palace, focused on progress in environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, water security and sustainability initiatives across the emirate.

Sheikh Hamdan said Abu Dhabi's achievements in environmental protection reflect the vision and support of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the country's commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

The board reviewed a series of environmental indicators, with air quality compliance reaching 98 per cent and marine microbial water quality maintaining a score of 100 per cent. The Sustainable Fishing Index also remained at 100 per cent.

Members were updated on efforts to strengthen Abu Dhabi's emergency water supply resilience, including groundwater assessments in Al Dhafra and Al Ain and the development of a governance framework for groundwater management.

The agency also highlighted major biodiversity projects underway across the emirate. More than 10 million seeds are being dispersed through aerial planting programmes aimed at restoring vegetation cover and protecting natural habitats.

EAD's marine conservation efforts continue to expand, with the Abu Dhabi Coral Gardens initiative cultivating more than 302,000 coral colonies since the start of the year. The project has now produced a total of 1.8 million coral colonies since its launch.

The agency's environmental research vessel, Jaywun, completed nearly 2,900 kilometres of scientific surveys during 2026, collecting environmental data from 81 locations. Since entering service in 2023, the vessel has covered more than 50,000 kilometres.

On land, EAD carried out around 14,000 patrols across protected areas and surrounding habitats, identifying approximately 400 environmental violations. The agency also increased efforts to control invasive and harmful species, conducting around 870 interventions - a 55 per cent increase compared with previous periods.

The board also reviewed environmental regulation and compliance activities. During the reporting period, EAD issued approximately 2,400 environmental licences and conducted more than 1,200 inspections, achieving an environmental compliance rate of 89 per cent.

Using artificial intelligence technology, the agency identified 181 illegal waste dumping sites and took action to remove them. It has also developed what it says is the region's first roadmap to tackle transboundary pollutants affecting air and marine environments.

The meeting also heard an update from Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, which treated around 1,700 falcons and carried out more than 29,000 laboratory tests between January and May this year.

Sheikh Hamdan praised EAD's work in environmental protection and public awareness, highlighting the role of science, innovation and collaboration in safeguarding Abu Dhabi's natural resources and supporting the emirate's long-term sustainability goals.