Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Reviews Environment Agency’s Landmark Environmental Achievements
The Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region chairs the third board meeting of 2026, overseeing exceptional progress in air quality, marine conservation and strategic environmental initiatives.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), has chaired the agency’s third board meeting of 2026 at Al Nakheel Palace, where he reviewed comprehensive environmental performance metrics and strategic initiatives designed to safeguard the emirate’s natural heritage.
His Highness emphasised that environmental stewardship represents a collective endeavour, requiring coordinated action across government entities, community organisations and private partners. He underscored that Abu Dhabi’s continued expansion necessitates a forward-thinking environmental framework anchored in robust legislation, evidence-based science and meaningful collaboration, reflecting the vision of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his unwavering commitment to preserving the nation’s natural resources.
Exceptional Environmental Performance
The meeting revealed outstanding operational results across multiple environmental metrics. Air quality compliance achieved 91.2 percent adherence to national standards, surpassing the federal target of 90 percent. Both the Sustainable Fisheries Index and the microbial water quality indicator maintained their optimal score of 100 percent, whilst the Marine Water Eutrophication Index reached 80 percent, exceeding its 70 percent target.
Environmental compliance reached 94 percent following more than 193 enforcement actions across industrial, commercial and waste management sectors. EAD secured a strategic groundwater reserve at Umm Ghafah and Al Shuwaib with a capacity of 22,000 cubic metres, reinforcing the emirate’s emergency preparedness capabilities.
Marine and Terrestrial Conservation
The agency highlighted significant progress in biodiversity protection through the launch of the Abu Dhabi Mangrove Observatory and expanded protection of critical species and habitats. The Abu Dhabi Coral Gardens initiative has exceeded 85 percent of this year’s targets, whilst protected areas accommodated more than 71,000 participants in ecotourism activities, demonstrating the balance between conservation and sustainable economic engagement.
His Highness approved the environmental policy and legislation roadmap for 2027-2028, directing accelerated implementation across groundwater management, air quality, ecotourism, species protection, greenhouse gas emissions, waste management and circular economy initiatives. He also directed the launch of a two- to three-year pilot phase for the Abu Dhabi Desert Vegetation Cover Restoration Initiative, which aims to rehabilitate desert landscapes using native plants and minimal water resources.
Looking Forward
His Highness commended EAD’s achievements as the agency marks 30 years since its establishment, directing continued advancement through investment in national talent, modern technologies and artificial intelligence. He called for strengthened partnerships with the private sector, academic institutions and international organisations to address future environmental challenges and ensure resource sustainability for future generations. The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital also reported treating 1,325 falcons and 1,930 pets, reflecting the agency’s comprehensive wildlife care commitment.
Source: WAM