Dubai Reef, the world’s largest marine reef development project by Dubai Can, has been inaugurated with the launch of the first pilot reef modules for the landmark sustainability initiative.
As part of the sustainable project, 20,000 purpose-built reef modules of various sizes will be installed across Dubai’s waters over the course of four years, enhancing marine biodiversity and supporting environmental stewardship. Spanning a staggering 600 square kilometers, the meticulously crafted design of the reef modules will exceed 400,000 cubic meters in volume.
With an initial proof of concept championed by the now Director General of the newly formed Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority (DECCA), Ahmed Mohammed bin Thani and contractors HaejooX in 2021, the first modules have now been activated as part of the Dubai Reef pilot project. Working alongside the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), DECCA will be a critical partner in ensuring successful project delivery. Bin Thani will continue to play a key role in supporting the Dubai Reef project and further strengthen the emirate’s advocacy in the realm of environmental protection and climate action. DP World; Dubai Chambers; Nakheel; the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation; and Emirates join DET and DECCA as strategic partners in the Dubai Reef project.
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said: “The Dubai Reef project showcases the emirate’s enduring commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. This collaboration between public and private sector entities will see each partner bring their expertise to drive Dubai’s sustainable future and contribute towards achieving the ambitious goals set forth in the D33 Agenda.”
The Dubai Reef initiative is a strategic investment set to leave a lasting legacy in terms of protecting marine life and environmental sustainability. The project’s key drivers include enhancing biodiversity, safeguarding Dubai’s coastal and marine habitats, supporting fish populations, and increasing ecosystem resilience. The project will also encourage environmental stewardship, strengthen socio-economic prosperity and ecotourism, and preserve Dubai’s marine heritage.
The project has won over renowned investor Ray Dalio, who is involved in various philanthropic initiatives and takes a keen interest in ocean exploration and conservation. “I love this audacious Dubai Reef project because it will be a remarkable contribution to the world’s understanding of the benefits of ocean restoration and as well make the Dubai environment healthier and provide an incredible recreation park. Once again, Dubai is pursuing an ambitiously great project, this time under the visionary guidance of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan. It is an amazing project in an amazing place under amazing leadership,” he said.
