ABU DHABI: The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has launched the world’s largest coral rehabilitation project, aiming to outplant over four million coral colonies across the emirate’s waters by 2030. Directed by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the initiative will cover more than 900 hectares of marine area.
EAD previously met its goal of planting one million coral colonies across eight sites, restoring over 300 hectares with a 95% success rate. These restored zones are already reviving marine life, with a 50% rise in fish biomass and diversity.
What makes this effort exceptional is the continued growth of corals during summer—an unusual trait that shows their resilience to the Arabian Gulf’s extreme heat. This endurance is crucial as coral reefs globally face climate-related threats, especially rising sea temperatures.
The project began with site assessments to identify healthy donor reefs and ideal nursery locations, factoring in water quality, depth, temperature, and current flow. Underwater coral nurseries were then created to cultivate corals, with a production capacity of one million colonies.
In the next phase, mature corals were harvested and transplanted to degraded reef areas. The third and final phase continues the restoration process, expanding reef coverage and helping rebuild the broader ecosystem.
Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, EAD Secretary-General, confirmed that the programme aligns with Abu Dhabi’s biodiversity and climate resilience goals. She highlighted coral reefs’ ability to adapt in the region’s harsh marine conditions, helping support diverse fish populations.
Ahmed Al Hashemi of EAD noted that selecting heat-resistant coral species will further strengthen the reefs’ ability to survive climate change and maintain fish stocks essential to marine biodiversity.
