UAE deeply committed to safeguarding its rich biodiversity - Minister of Climate Change and Environment
21 May 2025 21:38
DUBAI (WAM)Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to preserving its natural ecosystems and safeguarding life on land and in water.In a statement on the International Day for Biological Diversity, marked annually on May 22, Dr. Al Dahak said that this year's theme - From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity - perfectly captures the urgency of the UAE's mission, and noting that the General Framework of the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031 reflects this understanding.She added, "We recognise that protecting biodiversity and championing nature-based solutions are not simply environmental add-ons; they are the essential foundation upon which all our efforts to combat climate change and achieve lasting sustainability must be built."Dr. Al Dahak emphasised that the UAE is deeply committed to safeguarding its rich biodiversity, embracing it as a cornerstone of its sustainability efforts. This is reflected in the designation of 49 protected areas in the UAE, which encompass over 15 percent of the nation's territory, and preserves its desert, mountains, and the marine environment, known to provide critical habitats for endangered species."Our success in bringing the majestic Arabian Oryx back from the brink of extinction stands as a testament to our dedication to wildlife conservation. Furthermore, we are leveraging technology to enhance our conservation strategies, from using drones to combat desertification to pioneering research in marine life preservation," she further said.Beyond our borders, Dr. Al Dahak stated, the UAE champions international collaboration, exemplified by its partnership with Indonesia to launch the Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC)."As part of this alliance, we are also investing in cutting-edge research, as demonstrated by the groundbreaking of the Mohamed bin Zayed-Joko Widodo International Mangrove Research Centre on the island of Bali, in collaboration with the Republic of Indonesia," she said."Here in the UAE, we are actively engaging stakeholders across multiple sectors to boost our local agriculture and safeguard the country's rich biodiversity,' the minister explained, adding that the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition, taking place from May 28 to 31, offers an opportunity to turn goals into tangible actions."In addition to our focus on supporting farmers and increasing the local production of strategic crops, we will place special emphasis on the development of our livestock and fisheries, key pillars in strengthening both biodiversity and sustainable food security," she added.
"I invite you to join us at this important event to explore innovative strategies that ensure a better future for both nature and humanity. Let us build a lasting legacy that future generations will be proud to carry forward," Dr. Al Dahak concluded.
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Al Etihad
a day ago
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UAE's wise leadership fuels success in bolstering sustainable national food security: Amna Al Dahak
31 May 2025 23:54 AL AIN (WAM)Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, has affirmed that, with the backing of the UAE's wise leadership, the nation is making significant strides in supporting farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs to enhance sustainable food security. She noted that the inaugural Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition marks an important step towards developing a technologically advanced and innovative agricultural sector in the minister's comments came at the close of the first Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the event, organised by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, took place over four days, from May 28-31, at the ADNEC Al Ain event saw widespread participation from government and private sector entities, academic and research institutions, start-ups, local farmers, and the community, achieving considerable success in showcasing the latest agricultural innovations, strengthening strategic partnerships, and supporting the UAE's vision for a secure and sustainable food Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak highlighted that the UAE's agricultural sector and farmers receive ongoing support from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. His Highness prioritises empowering farmers through various programmes and initiatives aimed at helping them improve their farms, boost production, and enhance quality and emphasised that, with the support of H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Ain Region, the city of Al Ain has become a vital agricultural hub in the UAE. Its strong agricultural potential positions it to play a larger role in boosting the sector and supporting sustainable national food security. Al Ain now serves as a national model for modern agriculture, making it the ideal host for the first UAE Agricultural Conference and the closing ceremony, Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak expressed her pride and gratitude for the success of the conference and exhibition, thanking all those who had contributed to the success of this national about the conference's outcomes, Dr. Al Dahak explained: 'We have witnessed how science and hard work can transform challenges into opportunities, and how the desert can be turned into a green oasis thanks to the will and determination of the people of this nation. The unique products and innovative initiatives we have seen are testament to our ability to grow and develop our agricultural sector, and to continue making progress towards achieving sustainable food security.'Dr. Amna Al Dahak emphasised the vital role of Emirati farmers, saying: 'At the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, we believe that Emirati farmers are at the heart of our efforts, and we are committed to empowering them with knowledge and modern technologies.'Looking to the future, the minister added: 'I am confident and optimistic that we will continue to strengthen our partnerships, launch new initiatives, and achieve further successes that benefit our nation. Our strategic goal is to make agriculture a key driver of sustainable and inclusive development across the Emirates.'Al Dahak affirmed the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment's commitment to building on the success of this inaugural event, ensuring that the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition becomes a pivotal annual event that contributes to the development of the agricultural sector, strengthens partnerships between the public and private sectors, young people, entrepreneurs, and all members of the community, leading to a secure and sustainable food future for generations to the close of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025, Dr. Al Dahak recognised the strategic partners and official sponsors of the event, in acknowledgement of their efforts and significant support, and their vital contribution to the success of its first a statement, Dr. Al Dahak said: 'I extend my sincere thanks to all the sponsors, partners, farmers, and creative young people, the lifeblood of this vital sector. The successes achieved demonstrate the ability of our agriculture to transform and innovate to achieve sustainable food security, and we are committed to empowering Emirati farmers and supporting the sustainability of the sector. We are now seeing the start of a continuous journey towards more sustainable agriculture, in line with the vision of our wise leadership. We look forward to further successes that serve our nation and fulfil the aspirations of the UAE community.'The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition provided a leading strategic platform for sharing knowledge and showcasing the latest technologies and innovations in the agricultural sector. The comprehensive programme included over 75 speakers in more than 20 talks, panel discussions, and workshops covering all aspects of modern and sustainable agriculture. The event also saw active participation from 22 government federal and local government entities involved in the agriculture and food sector, alongside over 40 private sector companies, and more than 20 start-ups working in agritech. From the academic side, four national universities contributed their research capabilities, in addition to participation of several schools, with more than 1,000 students taking part in events and community workshops.
Al Etihad
21-05-2025
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UAE deeply committed to safeguarding its rich biodiversity - Minister of Climate Change and Environment
21 May 2025 21:38 DUBAI (WAM)Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to preserving its natural ecosystems and safeguarding life on land and in a statement on the International Day for Biological Diversity, marked annually on May 22, Dr. Al Dahak said that this year's theme - From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity - perfectly captures the urgency of the UAE's mission, and noting that the General Framework of the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031 reflects this added, "We recognise that protecting biodiversity and championing nature-based solutions are not simply environmental add-ons; they are the essential foundation upon which all our efforts to combat climate change and achieve lasting sustainability must be built."Dr. Al Dahak emphasised that the UAE is deeply committed to safeguarding its rich biodiversity, embracing it as a cornerstone of its sustainability efforts. This is reflected in the designation of 49 protected areas in the UAE, which encompass over 15 percent of the nation's territory, and preserves its desert, mountains, and the marine environment, known to provide critical habitats for endangered species."Our success in bringing the majestic Arabian Oryx back from the brink of extinction stands as a testament to our dedication to wildlife conservation. Furthermore, we are leveraging technology to enhance our conservation strategies, from using drones to combat desertification to pioneering research in marine life preservation," she further our borders, Dr. Al Dahak stated, the UAE champions international collaboration, exemplified by its partnership with Indonesia to launch the Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC)."As part of this alliance, we are also investing in cutting-edge research, as demonstrated by the groundbreaking of the Mohamed bin Zayed-Joko Widodo International Mangrove Research Centre on the island of Bali, in collaboration with the Republic of Indonesia," she said."Here in the UAE, we are actively engaging stakeholders across multiple sectors to boost our local agriculture and safeguard the country's rich biodiversity,' the minister explained, adding that the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition, taking place from May 28 to 31, offers an opportunity to turn goals into tangible actions."In addition to our focus on supporting farmers and increasing the local production of strategic crops, we will place special emphasis on the development of our livestock and fisheries, key pillars in strengthening both biodiversity and sustainable food security," she added. "I invite you to join us at this important event to explore innovative strategies that ensure a better future for both nature and humanity. Let us build a lasting legacy that future generations will be proud to carry forward," Dr. Al Dahak concluded.
Gulf Today
27-03-2025
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UAE minister lauds Dubai Police's agricultural project training 200 inmates annually
Dr. Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, accompanied by His Excellency Expert Major General Khalil Ibrahim Al Mansouri, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Criminal Investigation Affairs at Dubai Police, and a number of senior officers, visited Dubai Police's 'Hasad' agricultural project, located within Dubai's correctional facility and spanning 9,600 square metres. The initiative, launched by the General Department of Correctional and Penal Institutions, supports Plant the Emirates National Programme, which was introduced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to promote sustainable agricultural development and national food security. Empowering Inmates and Supporting Food Security Dr. Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak praised the agricultural project by Dubai Police, describing it a significant advancement in promoting best practices in sustainable agriculture within the UAE. HE highlighted its role in leveraging human resources for modern agricultural development and making a meaningful impact on strengthening national food security in a sustainable way. Dr. Amna said: 'Plant the Emirates National Programme serves as a cornerstone for promoting agricultural practices in farms, facilities and within homes by engaging the community in growing their own food. The agricultural project by Dubai Police reflects this ethos in an innovative manner. It is aligned with our efforts to cultivate a robust and resilient agriculture that contributes to enhancing local crop production, reducing reliance on imports.' Dr. Amna added: "We are committed to providing all possible support to agricultural projects in the UAE, especially the ones that adopt modern, climate-smart agricultural practices. We encourage entities including the private sector, and the community to engage in agriculture and work towards creating more green spaces in the UAE, while also ensuring a food-secure and sustainable future for all.' A Strategic Step Towards Sustainability Major General Khalil Al Mansouri emphasised that the 'Hasad' (Arabic for Harvest) project aligns with the UAE's sustainability goals, integrating innovation and social responsibility by training inmates in meaningful trades while also promoting environmental sustainability through local food production. 'This project equips inmates with practical agricultural skills and provides them with economic opportunities to start their own initiatives upon release, creating a pathway for sustainable reintegration into society.' Modern Agricultural Technologies at the Core According to Major General Marwan Abdul Karim Jalfar, Director of the General Department of Correctional and Punitive Institutions, the project was launched per the directives of Lieutenant General Abdulla Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police. Jalfar explained that the initiative represents a model of cooperation between the Dubai Police and society, funded by a charitable endowment of AED 3 million, which is dedicated to rehabilitating inmates. 'The project relies on smart, climate-resilient agricultural technologies that reduce water consumption, land usage, and the carbon footprint of traditional farming. It is a promising solution to agricultural challenges and supports the UAE's goal of transforming farming into a sustainable system aligned with the National Food Security Strategy 2051.' A Sustainable and Scalable Model Lieutenant Colonel Muhammad Al Obaidli, Director of the Inmate Education and Training Department and Manager of the Hasad Project, highlighted that agricultural training has been a key part of Dubai's rehabilitation programmes since 2016. The Hasad initiative, however, represents a significant expansion as a sustainable and results-driven model. The 9,600-square-metre farm is divided into three sections: • Section 1: Contains seven structures, including one classroom and six greenhouses. • Section 2: A covered traditional farming plot, 4 metres high. • Section 3: Features seven additional greenhouses, each measuring 30 x 8 metres with a height of 6.5 metres. In addition, a separate 20 x 8-metre area has been allocated for female inmates. Training and Production Capacity The project aims to train 200 inmates annually, with 50 trainees every three months, a period sufficient to master modern farming techniques. So far, 371 inmates have been trained in the pilot phase. The farm is expected to yield over 56 tonnes of produce annually, focusing on tomatoes and cucumbers, with 6,508 seedlings currently in the ground, along with other vegetables. The project is also projected to generate AED 1 million in annual revenue, depending on market prices. This revenue will be dedicated to supporting the rehabilitation of inmates by funding their education and training across various fields. Lt. Col. Al Obaidli concluded: 'The Hasad project is a powerful use of inmates' time, providing them with future job opportunities or the ability to start their own businesses while contributing to national sustainability goals.'
