Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Centre Celebrates Conservation Through Community Running Event
Over 650 participants gathered at Yas SeaWorld to support marine habitat protection, with proceeds directed towards critical seagrass meadow research
The Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Centre recently hosted the second edition of One Ocean Run: Mission Dugong, an event that seamlessly wove together community engagement, physical wellness and marine conservation into a morning of meaningful celebration. The gathering attracted over 650 participants, ranging from families and novice runners to accomplished athletes, each united in their commitment to environmental stewardship.
The event offered three distinct running distances to accommodate participants of varying abilities: 2.5 kilometres, 5 kilometres and 10 kilometres. The carefully curated routes traversed the distinctive habitats and immersive environments of SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s innovative marine life theme park, providing runners with an intimate connection to the marine ecosystems they were supporting through their participation.
One Ocean Run: Mission Dugong focused particular attention on the conservation of seagrass meadows, vital marine habitats that sustain dugong populations and countless other species throughout the Arabian Gulf. These underwater meadows represent one of the most ecologically significant yet vulnerable ecosystems in the region, and their protection remains essential to the broader health of the marine environment.
A meaningful portion of the proceeds from the event demonstrated the organisers’ commitment to substantive conservation outcomes. Thirty dirhams from every ticket sold has been allocated to seagrass research initiatives led by the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Centre, advancing scientific understanding of these critical marine habitats and informing their long-term stewardship. These research endeavours form part of Abu Dhabi’s wider conservation framework, supported through the Impact Fund by Miral, an organisation dedicated to driving social and environmental progress across the Emirate.
Beyond the competitive dimensions of the morning, the event encompassed a vibrant celebration that extended to families and supporters. Attendees enjoyed entertainment featuring a live DJ, engaging character appearances, photography opportunities and a selection of prize giveaways that elevated the festivities. Educational pop-up installations offered guests the opportunity to deepen their understanding of marine life and the natural habitats upon which diverse species depend for their survival.
The success of One Ocean Run: Mission Dugong reflects Abu Dhabi’s unwavering commitment to balancing community wellbeing with environmental protection, creating experiences that inspire residents and visitors alike to participate actively in conservation efforts that preserve the Emirate’s remarkable natural heritage.
Source: WAM