Abu Dhabi is home to diverse natural ecosystems, from the marine habitats of the Arabian Gulf to the desert landscapes that support native wildlife. Protecting these environments requires scientific research, community participation and long-term investment. As the emirate continues to develop its tourism and leisure sector, environmental conservation is becoming an important part of corporate responsibility. Businesses are increasingly finding ways to support biodiversity, fund research and involve local communities in protecting natural habitats. One example is IMPACT by Miral, a social impact platform established in December 2025 in partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an. The initiative brings together funding, research expertise and community partnerships to support environmental and social priorities across Abu Dhabi.

Source: Miral.ae

Building on Abu Dhabi’s Community Responsibility Initiatives

Miral’s CSR and outreach initiatives focus on three areas: People, Community and Environment. These include programmes that support education, health and wellbeing, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare.

Building on these efforts, IMPACT by Miral provides a more structured approach to supporting conservation projects, scientific research and community initiatives across Abu Dhabi.

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How IMPACT by Miral Supports Conservation in Abu Dhabi

The fund focuses on four pillars: Conservation, Arts & Culture, Health & Wellbeing, and Education & Skills Development.

Its Conservation pillar supports projects that protect wildlife, improve scientific understanding of natural ecosystems and encourage responsible resource management.

In May 2026, four conservation priorities were approved, focusing on marine and terrestrial biodiversity. These initiatives bring together researchers, environmental organisations and specialist institutions to address specific conservation challenges.

Protecting Sea Turtles in the Arabian Gulf

Sea turtles face pressures from human activity, changing marine conditions and threats to their habitats.

The Sea Turtle Population Tracking Programme uses GPS tagging, rescue records and monitoring to study turtle movements, feeding areas and population health.

The research is intended to provide information that can support marine protection strategies and conservation decisions in the UAE.

Supporting Sustainable Aquaculture

Aquaculture can contribute to food production, but its long-term sustainability depends on how resources and environmental conditions are managed.

The approved sustainable aquaculture initiative focuses on using artificial intelligence and research to advance more responsible aquaculture practices. It connects environmental conservation with Abu Dhabi’s wider interest in sustainable food production.

Studying the Arabian Sand Cat

The Arabian Sand Cat is a desert-adapted wild cat found in the region. Understanding its behaviour, distribution and habitat requirements is important for planning effective conservation measures.

The Arabian Sand Cat initiative supports research into this species and its protection in Abu Dhabi’s desert environment.

Community participation has also become part of these efforts. On 25 October 2026, more than 1,500 people participated in the Run for Impact event at Yas Bay Waterfront. The event raised awareness and funds for Arabian Sand Cat research and conservation.

Safeguarding the Dama Gazelle

The Dama Gazelle is critically endangered, making coordinated conservation efforts important for its survival.

The conservation initiative focuses on protecting the species through research and structured population conservation planning.

Al Ain Zoo, operated and managed by Miral, is among the organisations involved in supporting this work, contributing its wildlife management and conservation expertise.

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Why Partnerships Matter for Environmental Conservation

Wildlife conservation requires different forms of expertise. Researchers study species and habitats, conservation organisations manage programmes, and funding partners help provide the resources needed to carry out the work.

The fund works with organisations including Al Ain Zoo and the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center on Yas Island. Its governance includes a Steering Committee with representatives from the organisation and Ma’an, supported by an advisory group with relevant expertise.

This structure is designed to provide oversight and help align conservation projects with Abu Dhabi’s environmental priorities.

Encouraging Communities to Take Part

Conservation is not limited to scientific institutions. Residents, schools and businesses also have a role in supporting environmental protection.

Across Abu Dhabi, community activities such as beach clean-ups, wildlife awareness programmes and educational workshops help people understand local environmental challenges.

One example is the Winged Horizons initiative, which involved the installation of 10 nesting boxes for local raptors on Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, in collaboration with conservation and education partners.

These activities offer practical opportunities for residents, particularly younger generations, to learn about biodiversity and take part in protecting their surroundings.

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Supporting Long-Term Conservation in Abu Dhabi

Environmental conservation requires continued research, reliable funding and cooperation between organisations. A single campaign or event cannot address every challenge facing wildlife and natural habitats.

Through initiatives covering sea turtles, desert wildlife, sustainable aquaculture and endangered species, Abu Dhabi is bringing scientific research and community involvement into its conservation efforts.

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