The city of Dubai has inaugurated the landmark Dubai Reef project with the launch of the pilot reef modules.
A sustainable initiative by Dubai Can, Dubai Reef is the world's largest marine reef development project and marks a pioneering step in Dubai's efforts to promote ecological sustainability. Working around a plan to deploy 20,000 purpose-built reef modules of various sizes over a four-year period, Dubai Reef marks a significant endeavour for the city that will span a staggering 600 square kilometres across Dubai's waters. The meticulously crafted design of the reef units will see them exceed 400,000 cubic metres in volume.
The Dubai Reef project is a city-wide collaboration uniting key partners to support the wider strategic goals and ambitions of Dubai and the UAE, including the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), the UAE's Green Agenda – 2030, and the UAE Net Zero 2050 strategy.
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai Economy and Tourism, said: "Reef ecosystems are unique life sources and vital components in the protection of marine life. The Dubai Reef project will inject vitality into our coastal waters and contribute to global conservation efforts. The project's significant long-term environmental and socio-economic impacts will serve Dubai's commitment to ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. 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. It is an amazing project in an amazing place under amazing leadership," he said.
