DUBAI REEF Initiative Boosts Marine Life and Biodiversity in Local Waters
Underwater footage from the project's proof-of-concept site reveals an increase in marine activity, with growing habitats and a surge in fish populations.
Surveys recorded a notable rise across 15 native species, such as groupers, snappers, and barracuda. The initiative has achieved a 10% boost in marine biodiversity and an eightfold increase in fish biomass, highlighting its early success in restoring marine ecosystems.
Launched in 2024, the initiative aims to deploy 20,000 reef modules across 600 km² by 2027, with 39% of the modules already fabricated and 3,660 deployed so far. DUBAI REEF is structured around three pillars: Marine Habitat Restoration, Marine Life Rehabilitation, and Marine Conservation Research.
The initiative is part of the Dubai Can sustainability movement and was launched under the direction of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. It is powered by a public-private partnership that includes DET, DECCA, DP World, Dubai Chambers, Nakheel, PCFC, and Emirates.
DUBAI REEF also supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Climate Action (SDG 13), Life Below Water (SDG 14), and Partnerships (SDG 17).
News Source: Emirates News Agency
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