Abu Dhabi: The Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi (EAD), the largest environmental regulator in the Middle East, and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Miral to collaborate with Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue on marine conservation, research initiatives, and marine wildlife rescue efforts in the region.
Through this partnership, EAD and Miral, through Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue, will collaborate across multiple areas, including the response to marine wildlife incidents and rescues, the rehabilitation of rescued marine animals, and their safe return to their natural habitat.
The two partners will also work closely to enhance education around marine life conservation through capacity building as well as outreach programs aimed at the general public. The centre, located adjacent to the upcoming Marine-Life Theme Park SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, joins a network of three facilities established across the US and aims to build on SeaWorld’s legacy of almost 60 years of marine animal care, rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation, with over 40,000 rescues to date.
Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of the Environment Agency in Abu Dhabi, commented that “this collaboration with Miral and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue is a significant step forward in our mission to protect and preserve the marine ecosystems of Abu Dhabi and the entire UAE. By joining forces, we endeavour to improve the treatment of rescued wildlife, expand ecological research, and better understand environmental threats. It will further enhance the success of conservation efforts led by the EAD, ultimately benefiting the region’s marine wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems.”
Miral Group CEO Mr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi shared that “we are honoured to announce our partnership with the Environment Agency in Abu Dhabi. This collaboration with Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue is a testament to our shared commitment to protecting the UAE and the region’s marine life while pushing the limits of science and conservation to create a truly unparalleled knowledge hub. Abu Dhabi and the UAE have a rich maritime heritage, and it is our responsibility to preserve this legacy for the years to come and forge a sustainable future for those who will inherit the earth from us.”
The two partners will also develop joint research initiatives to better understand the ecosystem values of sensitive nearshore habitats such as seagrass. Working with students in related fields, EAD and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue will also provide internship opportunities to nurture the development of aspiring marine scientists.