Dubai has announced the launch of the Dubai Reef project, one of the world’s largest marine reef developments, marking a pioneering step in the journey towards ecological preservation.
In line with the directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the Dubai Reef project will be led by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and founding partner, the Regulatory Committee on Fishing of Living Aquatic Resources in Dubai, in cooperation with Dubai Chambers, the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC), and Nakheel.
The Dubai Reef project is a monumental endeavour, deploying artificial reef modules of various sizes, spanning a staggering 600 square kilometres of Dubai’s pristine waters.
The meticulous design of these reefs exceeds 400,000 cubic meters in total volume, with an estimated capacity to capture over seven million tonnes of carbon annually.
Beyond carbon capture, this project plays a pivotal role in coral reef habitat restoration, coastal protection, and the revival of marine biodiversity along Dubai’s foreshore. It aligns with the city’s efforts to increase fish stocks, support sustainable fishing, and contribute to boosting food security.
Sheikh Hamdan highlighted that preserving the environment, safeguarding wildlife, and promoting biodiversity stand as core priorities for the UAE, aligned with the strategic initiative to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
The launch of the project coincides with the hosting of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28).
The Dubai Reef project stands as a testament to Dubai’s commitment, as exemplified by initiatives like the citywide sustainability movement, ‘Dubai Can’.
The Dubai Reef project is set to unfold in four phases, each contributing to its success and ecological impact. Deployment of the Dubai Reef project will commence at the end of Q1 2024 and is targeted for completion within a four-year time frame.
From an environmental perspective, the project promises to sustain and safeguard coastal infrastructure. It is set to become a hub of marine life, offering a habitat for a diverse range of marine species. Beyond environmental benefits, the Dubai Reef project also has a profound socio-economic impact.
Alignment with UAE’s National Framework for Sustainable Fisheries
With marine conservation an utmost priority in the UAE, the Dubai Reef project aligns with the UAE National Framework for Sustainable Fisheries 2019-2030, emphasizing the country's commitment to increasing fish stocks and mitigating overfishing's impact on the marine environment. In conclusion, the Dubai Reef project underscores Dubai's leadership in environmental responsibility and innovation, further solidifying its position as a global leader in sustainable development.