UAE Set to Host IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is preparing to become the global hub for nature conservation as the United Arab Emirates gears up to host the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025. Scheduled from 9 to 15 October at Yas Island, this landmark gathering will bring together ministers, scientists, indigenous leaders, youth, civil society, and the private sector to address the urgent crises of biodiversity loss and climate change.

The announcement was made during a press conference at Atheer Studio on Yas Island, where officials outlined the programme and highlighted the UAE’s decades-long commitment to environmental stewardship. The event underscored the need for cross-sector collaboration and swift collective action to protect the planet’s natural heritage.

The congress is expected to set a decisive tone for the years ahead, aligning global efforts with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and international climate targets. With just five years remaining to achieve key 2030 milestones, leaders view this congress as a pivotal moment to accelerate progress toward a nature-positive future.

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The UAE’s hosting of this global event reflects more than five decades of conservation efforts rooted in the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the country’s Founding Father. From reintroducing endangered species to restoring ecosystems and pledging to plant 100 million mangroves by 2030, the nation has built a strong legacy of environmental protection. Advanced marine research vessels, innovative blue carbon projects, and nature-based climate solutions are just some of the UAE’s contributions to global conservation.

The week-long programme promises major announcements, including the unveiling of the updated IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, a new European Red List focusing on pollinators, and the latest IUCN World Heritage Outlook. Prestigious conservation honours such as the Coolidge Memorial Medal, the John C. Phillips Memorial Medal, and the International Ranger Awards will be presented to recognise outstanding contributions to protecting the planet’s ecosystems.

At the heart of the congress is the Members’ Assembly, where more than 1,400 IUCN member organisations will debate and vote on over 200 motions that will shape global conservation priorities for the next decade. High-level summits and forums will explore the links between biodiversity, climate action, and sustainable development, with the UAE positioning itself as a bridge-builder fostering dialogue and consensus.

A key highlight of the event will be the UAE Pavilion, which will serve as a living showcase of the country’s conservation journey. It will feature immersive exhibits on endangered species protection, marine restoration, youth leadership, and indigenous knowledge. Visitors will experience how science, tradition, and innovation have been combined to advance conservation efforts, inspiring collaborative approaches to a nature-positive economy.

By hosting the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, the UAE is reaffirming its role as a global leader in biodiversity conservation and sustainable innovation. As the world gathers in Abu Dhabi, the congress is set to launch a decade of accelerated solutions, reinforcing the belief that protecting nature is not only essential for the planet’s health but also for the wellbeing of generations to come.