ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / MENA Newswire / — Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi said the emirate is continuing to advance science-based environmental programmes and innovative tools to strengthen climate adaptation, protect natural resources and preserve biodiversity, as the world marks World Environment Day 2026 under the theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”
Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, said the occasion renews attention on protecting natural systems and improving ecosystem resilience in the face of climate change. The agency said its work over more than three decades has been built on scientific research, field monitoring and conservation programmes covering Abu Dhabi’s land, marine and coastal environments.
The agency said advanced technologies and artificial intelligence are being used in environmental monitoring and natural resource management to support climate adaptation across the emirate. Its programmes include data-driven assessment of ecosystems, monitoring of sensitive habitats and tools designed to improve understanding of pressures affecting groundwater, soil and biodiversity, which are central to Abu Dhabi’s environmental stability.
Adaptation plan sets long-term actions
The Abu Dhabi Climate Change Adaptation Plan for the Environment Sector 2025-2050 is a central part of the emirate’s current environmental planning. The plan focuses on groundwater, soil and biodiversity, which the agency identifies as highly vulnerable systems that support water security, food security, agricultural productivity, human health and the overall condition of Abu Dhabi’s ecosystems.
The plan includes 142 adaptation actions extending to 2050, with 86 projects identified for implementation over the next five years. It was developed under the Abu Dhabi Climate Change Strategy 2023-2027 and aligns with the UAE National Climate Change Plan 2017-2050 and the UAE Framework for Global Climate Resilience established at COP28.
Technology supports field conservation
Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi said recent milestones include the documented return of the Arabian caracal after a 35-year absence, the use of smart monitoring technologies and drones to survey more than 700 sites, and the development of Abu Dhabi’s first groundwater atlas. The atlas documents more than 118,000 wells and supports the emirate’s understanding of groundwater availability and use.
The agency said its adaptation and conservation work is being carried out with partners across government, academic, civil society and youth sectors. The wider programme is part of Abu Dhabi’s environmental efforts to protect biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience and sustain natural resources while supporting quality of life across the emirate.