Abu Dhabi biodiversity protection is getting stronger with new rules designed to protect local wildlife, marine life and natural habitats across the emirate.
ABU DHABI: Abu Dhabi has introduced new rules to better protect its wildlife and natural areas, from desert habitats to marine ecosystems.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), has issued Resolution No. 2 of 2026 covering the protection of species and habitats.
The main idea behind the new Abu Dhabi biodiversity protection rules is to make sure nature is protected as the emirate continues to grow and develop.
The resolution covers both land and marine habitats. It also protects important natural areas outside official nature reserves if they are considered valuable for biodiversity.
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Native animals and plants, along with migratory species that visit Abu Dhabi, will be covered under lists approved by EAD. Invasive and non-native species are not included.
The new rules are not only about protecting wildlife that is doing well today. They also focus on restoring damaged natural areas and helping species that may have been affected by changes to their habitats.
This is important for Abu Dhabi, which has a mix of deserts, islands, mangroves, coastal areas and marine environments that support many different species.
The resolution also introduces requirements for activities that could affect wildlife or natural areas. The aim is to reduce harm to the environment while allowing development to continue responsibly.
In simple terms, projects and activities that could have an impact on nature will need to consider the wildlife and habitats around them.
EAD said the resolution is part of its ongoing work to protect biodiversity and keep Abu Dhabi’s ecosystems healthy for future generations.
The agency is also asking everyone to play a part.
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Residents, government departments and private companies have been encouraged to follow the new rules and help protect the emirate’s natural environment.
The Abu Dhabi biodiversity protection measures come as sustainability becomes an increasingly important part of the emirate’s long-term development plans.
For residents, it also means greater attention will be given to the natural spaces and wildlife that make Abu Dhabi unique.
From desert animals and migratory birds to mangroves and marine species, the new framework is designed to make sure these ecosystems continue to have a place in Abu Dhabi’s future.
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The new rules should give Abu Dhabi’s wildlife and natural areas more protection. They could also help make sure new development happens without causing unnecessary damage to important habitats.
