Al Maha Diplomacy initiative is an initiative launched by MoCCAE, EAD, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This is taken mainly to preserve the biodiversity of UAE by exporting endangered species to other countries. They will make necessary transport arrangements to export and supply the flora and fauna abroad. The initiative’s prime responsibility is to ensure that the animals reach zoos and sanctuaries of other countries that can accommodate them and take care of them. The necessary precautionary steps and procedures to take care of the animals and plants will be provided by the ministry to the exported country.

The ministry aims to ensure the welfare of animals, plant preservation and at the same time sustaining local biodiversity. Many surveys and research were conducted to find the endangered species and about its habitats.

There are many sanctuaries in UAE:

1.      Wadi Wurayah National Park in Fujairah,

2.      Mangrove and Al Hafeya Protected Area in Khor Kalba

3.      Sir Bu Nair Island Protected Area in Sharjah

4.      Ghantoot Marine Reserve and Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary in Dubai

5.      Al Wathba Wetland Reserve and Bul Sayeef in Abu Dhabi, 

6.      Al Zora Protected Area in Ajman.

Now let me introduce to Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary:

a.      Location - Between the Palm Jebel Ali and up to the Dubai-Abu Dhabi border to the South West of Dubai.

b.      Area -2,002-hectare wetland.

c.       Sanctuary houses the following:

1.      Coral reefs

2.      Mangroves

3.      Shallow lagoons

4.      Seagrass beds

5.      Oyster beds

6.      Sandy shorelines

d.      Home to many flora and fauna

e.      Hawksbill turtle, mottled eagle ray, green turtle found in the sanctuary

f.        Number of birds found – approximately 124

g.       Shark and fish species – approximately 147

Image Source: https://beeatna.ae/en/biodiversity-and-environment

News Source: http://wam.ae/en/details/1395302761879