In a significant milestone for environmental policy and international cooperation, His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, inaugurated the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi, under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. This momentous event marks the first time the congress is being held in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, adopting the theme “Powering Transformative Conservation.”
The World Conservation Congress is a global gathering that convenes influential leaders, policymakers, and conservation experts aimed at advancing nature conservation and sustainable development. Sheikh Khaled underscored the UAE’s enduring commitment to environmental protection, articulating that it forms an integral pillar of the nation’s comprehensive development strategy. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, the UAE has established itself as a pioneering model in global conservation efforts, showcasing innovative practices in resource management and ecosystem restoration.
The Crown Prince pointed to the UAE’s noteworthy achievements in environmental stewardship through substantial initiatives designed to restore degraded ecosystems, safeguard endangered species, and expand the network of protected areas. Currently, over 15 percent of the UAE’s total land area is designated as protected, which serves as a testament to the country’s proactive approach in conserving its natural heritage.
Highlighting the forward-looking vision of the UAE’s leadership, Sheikh Khaled reiterated that sustainability is firmly embedded in the nation’s strategic objectives. The preservation of natural resources and the achievement of environmental balance are viewed as essential cornerstones upon which sustainable development can thrive, ensuring a prosperous future for coming generations.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed an impressive assembly of dignitaries and conservation champions, including prominent figures such as His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence; Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment; and Her Excellency Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, President of the IUCN and Managing Director of the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund. This gathering highlights the UAE’s commitment not only to regional leadership in conservation efforts but also to fostering a collaborative spirit in addressing global environmental challenges.
Among the distinguished international attendees were leaders in conservation such as His Excellency Surangel Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau; Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Hasnaa, Chair of the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection; and Dr. Sylvia Earle, renowned marine biologist and founder of Mission Blue. Their participation underlines the congress’s significance as a pivotal platform for shaping environmental discourse and fostering international collaboration.
The hosting of the IUCN World Conservation Congress is not merely a reflection of the UAE’s leadership in promoting environmental initiatives but also aligns closely with the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031. This national strategy emphasizes a comprehensive approach towards enhancing nature-based solutions, restoring ecosystems, and protecting threatened species such as the Arabian Oryx and the Scimitar-Horned Oryx.
Beyond its borders, the UAE actively contributes to international sustainability initiatives, demonstrating its resolve to advance climate action, renewable energy adoption, and global food and water security. By organizing major environmental events and forging strong global partnerships, the UAE aims to drive the ambitious targets outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, including efforts to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
The IUCN, the world’s foremost environmental network, unites governments, civil society, and experts to develop actionable solutions for nature conservation. The World Conservation Congress serves as a critical venue for dialogue, fostering partnerships and informing policy decisions that promote sustainable development worldwide.
In conclusion, the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 represents a landmark opportunity for Abu Dhabi to reinforce its role as a beacon of environmental advocacy and innovation. As the discussions unfold and collaborative efforts take shape, the congress is poised to deliver substantive contributions to the global agenda on sustainability, conservation, and environmental resilience.
#UAE #EnvironmentNews #WorldNews