• Hundreds of Corals Relocated in Partnership with Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi

As part of its ongoing effort to sustain Abu Dhabi’s unique maritime environment, whilst developing world-leading maritime infrastructure, Abu Dhabi Ports today announced the launch of a major coral relocation and conservation project, in the waters surrounding Khalifa Port.

Conducted in partnership with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), Khalifa Port’s coral relocation forms part of a series of mitigation measures to lessen the environmental impact from dredging, whilst reclaiming waters that separate the offshore port’s breakwater from the spectacular Ras Ghanada coral reef, which is situated nearby.

The plan is being unveiled ahead of the construction of a heavy rail terminal that will connect Abu Dhabi Ports’ flagship, deep-water port to the UAE’s future rail network, Etihad Rail.

Mohamed Eidha Tannaf Al Menhali, Port Director – Khalifa Port, Abu Dhabi Ports, said: “Championing and protecting Abu Dhabi’s natural aquatic ecosystems have always been key considerations in the ongoing development of Khalifa Port, one of world’s most advanced deep-water ports. Abu Dhabi Ports is committed to driving both local and global initiatives aimed at introducing new technologies and solutions that will protect marine life and limit the impact of port activities on the local environment.

“Mindful of the dangers posed by coral reef degradation, which represents an existential threat to the planet’s biodiversity, Abu Dhabi Ports is leading the effort to implement extensive mitigation measures across its waters through expert coral relocation.

“We are collaborating with respected expert marine consultants, engineers and academics, in addition to partnering with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) to help conserve the coral colonies at Ras Ghanada, the most unique, diverse, and vibrant coral community in the Arabian Gulf.”

Typically undertaken during dredging and reclamation works, coral reef relocation is a critical exercise in port operations and is deemed essential for protecting local marine wildlife ecosystems.