Hamdan bin Zayed highlights UAE’s role at IUCN 2025

International participation and focus on biodiversity

The congress saw broad international participation from governments, experts, decision-makers, and stakeholders dedicated to the protection of nature and biodiversity.

UAE’s commitment to environmental protection

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed affirmed that under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE continues its steadfast commitment to environmental protection and the preservation of natural resources. This is achieved through comprehensive policies and legislation that safeguard species and habitats while promoting community engagement in sustainability efforts.

Expansion of nature reserves in Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the President’s directive to expand nature reserves in Abu Dhabi to cover 20% of the emirate’s total area. This initiative reflects the UAE’s dedication to strengthening its conservation framework, protecting biodiversity, and adding new terrestrial and marine reserves within the Zayed Protected Areas Network.

Success of the congress and role of EAD

Sheikh Hamdan noted that the congress’s success reflects the collective efforts of national institutions in unifying visions and strengthening cooperation between local and federal entities. He highlighted EAD’s pioneering role in adopting innovative environmental solutions and expanding strategic partnerships to ensure the long-term sustainability of ecosystems.

UAE’s global leadership in conservation

The IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 brought together more than 10,000 experts and representatives from 189 countries, who discussed and voted on over 200 proposals covering environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. Sheikh Hamdan praised the outcomes, which underscored the UAE’s global leadership in advancing action for nature.

Launch of strategic initiatives

The congress culminated in the launch of several strategic initiatives to support the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and accelerate international efforts to achieve conservation and sustainability goals by 2030. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak was re-elected as President of IUCN for a second consecutive term, in recognition of her leadership in promoting global environmental action.

Among the key initiatives was Nature X Abu Dhabi, aimed at using advanced technologies to protect species and natural habitats. The initiative promotes innovative solutions and sustainable investments, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a global platform for nature-positive action.

Appreciation for the organising team

Sheikh Hamdan expressed his appreciation to all members of the organising team, praising their impactful work and contributions to the congress’s success. He emphasised the importance of building on the congress’s achievements and translating its outcomes into realistic initiatives with tangible impact in nature conservation and sustainable development.

Key attendees

The meeting was attended by Sheikh Yas bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Sheikh Hamdan bin Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan; Mansour Ibrahim Al Mansouri, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi; Nasser Mohammed Al Mansouri, Under-Secretary of the Ruler’s Representative Court in Al Dhafra Region; Issa Hamad Boushehab, Advisor to the Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region; Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister for Energy and Sustainable Affairs; Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, President of IUCN and Managing Director of EAD; Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD; and several officials from federal and local authorities who contributed to the congress’s organisation.