2,500 MANGROVES TO BE PLANTED IN AL BADIYA

The drive aims to rehabilitate coastal and marine habitats, increase green cover, and safeguard local biodiversity.

His Excellency Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said: “Mangroves have always been an important part of our natural heritage. They offer a wealth of benefits that range from water filtration and sanitation to enhancing climate change resilience through carbon sequestration and serving as a home for a large number of marine species. Moreover, mangroves help protect the coastline against storm damage and erosion, in addition to promoting ecotourism due to their rich biodiversity.”

He added: “Recognizing these benefits, we are keen to cultivate mangroves along the country’s coastline. We previously collaborated with local authorities to plant mangroves at Al Zorah Natural Reserve in Ajman and Al-Muzahmi Protected Area in Ras Al Khaimah. Today, we are pleased to continue our efforts in partnership with Dibba Al Fujairah Municipality.”

For his part, His Excellency Eng Hassan Salem Al Yamahi, Director General of Dibba Al Fujairah Municipality, said: “In addition to its positive environmental impact that includes boosting the UAE’s fisheries, the initiative will enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area and create a new tourist attraction.”

He noted that the Government of Fujairah is dedicated to environmentally sustainable development, as the emirate hosts five marine protected areas.

As part of the drive, MOCCAE’s technical team surveyed the east coast at Al Badiya to ensure its suitability as a mangrove habitat in terms of soil type, tidal levels, and existing biodiversity. The Ministry plans to closely monitor the site and record seedling growth rates.