Dubai Reef is a groundbreaking project that symbolizes the emirate’s commitment to sustainability, marine conservation, and boosting tourism. This initiative follows the Dubai Can program, a pioneering sustainability effort led by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. Designed to span approximately 200 square kilometers, Dubai Reef will be the world’s largest artificial reef, aimed at revitalizing ocean ecosystems and promoting marine biodiversity, which is expected to enhance the tourism appeal of the region.

During the recent signing ceremony, Yousuf Lootah, CEO of Strategy and Corporate Performance at Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and Ryan Paik, CEO of HaejooX, formalized a contract to construct 20,000 specially designed reef modules over the next three years. This partnership highlights the collaborative efforts between public and private sectors to advance Dubai’s ambitious environmental agenda.

The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including HE Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, and His Excellency Ahmed Mohammed bin Thani, Chairman of the Regulatory Committee on Fishing of Living Aquatic Resources in Dubai and Director General of Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority (DECCA). Their presence underscores the strategic importance of the project in enhancing the local marine ecosystem.

Since its initial proof of concept in 2021, HaejooX has played a pivotal role in the Dubai Reef project, demonstrating the potential benefits of purpose-built reefs to support marine biodiversity and sustainable fishing practices. The pilot phase kicked off in April 2024, with plans to deploy the first 1,000 reef modules by late November 2024. This ambitious timeline reflects the project’s alignment with Dubai’s Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to position the emirate as a global leader in various sectors, including sustainability.

As part of a wider environmental strategy, Dubai Reef is supported by a diverse group of strategic partners, including DET, DECCA, DP World, Dubai Chambers, Nakheel, the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC), and Emirates. This multi-faceted collaboration showcases Dubai’s holistic approach to sustainability, emphasizing innovation and community engagement in environmental initiatives.

In addition to enhancing marine life, Dubai Reef is expected to boost local tourism by attracting eco-conscious travelers and marine enthusiasts. The project aligns with global trends emphasizing sustainability and conservation, further enhancing Dubai’s reputation as a forward-thinking destination committed to environmental stewardship.

As Dubai continues to drive forward with its environmental goals, initiatives like Dubai Reef not only contribute to ecological restoration but also serve as models for similar projects worldwide. This comprehensive effort reflects a deep commitment to sustainability and positions Dubai as a leader in marine conservation and biodiversity restoration while also bolstering its tourism sector.

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