Abu Dhabi Launches 500,000 Coral Reefs Project at Barakah Plant

Abu Dhabi is taking a major stride in marine conservation with a groundbreaking initiative to cultivate 500,000 coral reefs around the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in the Al Dhafra Region. The ambitious project is part of a broader plan to develop four million coral colonies by 2030, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a leader in environmental innovation.

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) are spearheading this initiative, combining scientific expertise and resources to restore and protect marine ecosystems. Coral nurseries will be established, focusing on species that can withstand rising ocean temperatures—a critical step in enhancing reef resilience amid climate change.

Over the next three years, the project aims to cultivate half a million coral colonies while implementing comprehensive environmental monitoring programs. This will support marine biodiversity and create thriving habitats for fish and other marine species, contributing to the ecological balance of Abu Dhabi’s coastal waters.

EAD has a strong track record in coral restoration, having already successfully cultured over 1.45 million coral colonies since 2021 as part of the Gulf’s largest reef rehabilitation project. Innovative nursery technologies and adaptive cultivation methods have resulted in a remarkable 95% survival rate of corals post-summer, alongside a 50% increase in fish biomass.

The initiative also highlights a collaborative model where government agencies and energy companies work together to achieve sustainable environmental outcomes. By integrating conservation efforts into industrial and energy projects, Abu Dhabi is setting a global example in balancing development with ecological stewardship.

With this project, the emirate is not only preserving its marine heritage but also advancing scientific research, supporting biodiversity, and preparing its coastal ecosystems to withstand future environmental challenges.