Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi, inaugurated the “World Conservation Congress 2025” organized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in Abu Dhabi for the first time in the Gulf region, under the theme “Enhancing Quality Efforts to Conserve Nature.”

His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said on the occasion of the congress launch that environmental protection represents a fundamental pillar in the UAE’s comprehensive development journey, which has established a pioneering model in nature conservation and resource sustainability.

He added that the UAE has a rich record in nature conservation, embodied by initiatives aimed at rehabilitating ecosystems, protecting endangered species, and expanding natural reserves that now cover more than 15% of its total area.

His Highness pointed out that the wise leadership places sustainability at the core of its vision for the future, recognizing that achieving environmental balance and preserving natural resources are the foundation for balanced development that ensures well-being for future generations.

The opening ceremony was attended by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence; Dr. Amina bint Abdullah Al Dhahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment; Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of State and Chairman of the Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi; Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Education and Knowledge in Abu Dhabi; Sarah Awad Muslim, Chairperson of the Department of Education and Knowledge in Abu Dhabi; Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairperson of the IUCN and CEO of the Mohamed bin Zayed Conservation Fund – Presidential Court; and Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi.

The opening day also saw the attendance of several global environmental leaders and officials, including Surangel Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau; Princess Lalla Hasnaa, President of the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection; Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, Regent of the Malaysian State of Pahang; Dr. Sylvia Earle, Nature Patron at IUCN and founder of the “Mission Blue” initiative; Juan Carlos Navarro, Minister of Environment of Panama; Elizabeth Maruma Mrema, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Deputy Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme; and Dr. Musonda Mumba, Secretary-General of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

The UAE’s hosting of this international event reflects its pioneering role as a key supporter of international cooperation, innovation, and balance in environmental work. These efforts are part of the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031, aiming to enhance nature-based solutions, restore ecosystems, and protect endangered species such as the Arabian Oryx and African Oryx (Abu Harab). These efforts demonstrate the commitment to environmental preservation and safeguarding natural heritage for future generations.

Internationally, the UAE continues to support global initiatives to promote nature-based solutions, protect rivers and oceans from pollution, enhance biodiversity, increase renewable energy capacities, strengthen global food and water security, and support innovation in sustainable environmental solutions worldwide.

The UAE’s leadership is also reflected through hosting major environmental events and forging international partnerships to implement the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework goals and fulfill climate and environmental commitments set for 2030 by supporting efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is the world’s largest and most diverse environmental network, bringing together governments, civil society, and experts to develop effective solutions for nature conservation.