emirates7 - The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has unveiled the Abu Dhabi Climate Change Adaptation Plan for the Environment Sector (2025–2050)—a strategic, science-driven framework aimed at protecting the emirate’s natural ecosystems and resources from the growing effects of climate change.
This groundbreaking initiative—the first of its kind in Abu Dhabi—forms part of the Abu Dhabi Climate Change Strategy 2023–2027. It aligns with both the UAE National Climate Change Plan 2017–2050 and the UAE Framework for Global Climate Resilience, launched at COP28, which sets specific adaptation targets across key sectors.
Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, described the plan’s launch as a major step in securing Abu Dhabi’s environmental future. “We are moving from predictions to proactive measures, demonstrating our commitment to preserving the emirate’s natural legacy,” she said. She emphasized that the plan will bolster the resilience of natural resources, protect biodiversity, and contribute to water and food security.
According to Al Dhaheri, the plan underscores Abu Dhabi’s dedication to addressing both current and anticipated climate impacts. It strengthens national climate goals and supports sustainable development by reducing environmental risks and conserving ecosystems—placing Abu Dhabi at the regional forefront of adaptation planning.
The plan prioritizes three highly vulnerable systems: groundwater, soil, and biodiversity, which are essential to public health, water availability, agriculture, and ecological balance.
Based on comprehensive risk analyses, the plan identifies a broad set of climate risks and introduces 142 adaptation measures to be carried out by 2050—including 86 high-priority initiatives set for implementation within the next five years. These measures include technical, institutional, and nature-based approaches.
Long-term, the plan aligns with Abu Dhabi’s strategic goals to preserve natural capital, improve food self-sufficiency, and promote sustainable land and water use. It also aims to strengthen the protection of biodiversity and ecosystems.
Sheikha Al Mazrouei, Executive Director of the Integrated Environment Policy and Planning Sector, noted that the plan is designed to be responsive and data-driven, incorporating evolving climate data, projections, and policies to ensure ongoing relevance and effectiveness. She added that the plan is part of a broader national and emirate-level effort to sustain ecosystems, manage resources wisely, and protect future generations.
The plan was developed through an inclusive process led by EAD, involving over 40 stakeholders from government, semi-government, academia, civil society, and youth sectors.
It is intended to be a living document, with periodic reviews, ongoing stakeholder involvement, and integration of new scientific and climate insights. In addition to complementing the UAE National Climate Change Plan, it aligns with the National Biodiversity Strategy and other global environmental commitments.
The Environment Sector Adaptation Plan is one of four sector-specific blueprints being implemented under a larger emirate-wide adaptation framework.
This groundbreaking initiative—the first of its kind in Abu Dhabi—forms part of the Abu Dhabi Climate Change Strategy 2023–2027. It aligns with both the UAE National Climate Change Plan 2017–2050 and the UAE Framework for Global Climate Resilience, launched at COP28, which sets specific adaptation targets across key sectors.
Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, described the plan’s launch as a major step in securing Abu Dhabi’s environmental future. “We are moving from predictions to proactive measures, demonstrating our commitment to preserving the emirate’s natural legacy,” she said. She emphasized that the plan will bolster the resilience of natural resources, protect biodiversity, and contribute to water and food security.
According to Al Dhaheri, the plan underscores Abu Dhabi’s dedication to addressing both current and anticipated climate impacts. It strengthens national climate goals and supports sustainable development by reducing environmental risks and conserving ecosystems—placing Abu Dhabi at the regional forefront of adaptation planning.
The plan prioritizes three highly vulnerable systems: groundwater, soil, and biodiversity, which are essential to public health, water availability, agriculture, and ecological balance.
Based on comprehensive risk analyses, the plan identifies a broad set of climate risks and introduces 142 adaptation measures to be carried out by 2050—including 86 high-priority initiatives set for implementation within the next five years. These measures include technical, institutional, and nature-based approaches.
Long-term, the plan aligns with Abu Dhabi’s strategic goals to preserve natural capital, improve food self-sufficiency, and promote sustainable land and water use. It also aims to strengthen the protection of biodiversity and ecosystems.
Sheikha Al Mazrouei, Executive Director of the Integrated Environment Policy and Planning Sector, noted that the plan is designed to be responsive and data-driven, incorporating evolving climate data, projections, and policies to ensure ongoing relevance and effectiveness. She added that the plan is part of a broader national and emirate-level effort to sustain ecosystems, manage resources wisely, and protect future generations.
The plan was developed through an inclusive process led by EAD, involving over 40 stakeholders from government, semi-government, academia, civil society, and youth sectors.
It is intended to be a living document, with periodic reviews, ongoing stakeholder involvement, and integration of new scientific and climate insights. In addition to complementing the UAE National Climate Change Plan, it aligns with the National Biodiversity Strategy and other global environmental commitments.
The Environment Sector Adaptation Plan is one of four sector-specific blueprints being implemented under a larger emirate-wide adaptation framework.