Sheikh Hamdan inaugurates Dubai Reefs

Dubai Reefs, described as the world’s largest marine conservation initiative, was inaugurated today by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and American investor Ray Dalio.

The artificial reef, an initiative of Dubai Can, covers an area of more than 600 square kilometres, equivalent to 85,000 football pitches.

In a post on his official Instagram page, Sheikh Hamdan shared his joy over the unforgettable dive. “This project demonstrates Dubai’s commitment to sustainable development, and serves as a model for global environmental projects,” the Crown Prince of Dubai said.

Mr Dalio has been active in raising public awareness of ocean climate change and its effects on the marine ecosystem. In recent years, he has partnered with Titanic director James Cameron to launch OceanX, a project to support ocean research and bring awareness to everyone on Earth through engaging media.

The Dubai Reefs initiative will create more than 400,000 cubic metres of reefs through the installation of 20,000 artificial reef modules. The project will be realised in four phases between 2024 and 2027.

“Dubai Reefs promises many benefits for marine biodiversity, the health of our planet and economic prosperity,” Sheikh Hamdan added.

A key feature of the project will be regenerative marine farming, an environmentally friendly technology for food production. It is said to be important for Dubai, as well as other coastal cities at risk of sea level rise.

The Dubai Reefs project, as envisioned by the developer, will transform Dubai into an eco-friendly destination where sea and land are harmonised. It is expected that other coastal cities will also want to adopt this initiative.

Source: Khaleej Times

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