The marine and coastal environment of the UAE holds great importance in terms of economic, social and environmental aspects. It encompasses the majority of the population and biodiversity, most economic and social activities are held there, and it is an essential source of oil production, desalination and fishing, and a major artery for trade with the outside world.
In line with this importance, the marine and coastal environment in the UAE has received special attention. Various efforts have been made by specialized authorities to protect the marine environment and its resources, including issuing and implementing laws and regulations to protect it from pollution, regulate activities in the marine environment or the coastal strip and establish marine protected areas for the conservation and development of biodiversity.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, in collaboration with its partners in the public and private sectors, continues to work towards greater protection of the marine and coastal environment and the preservation of its vital role through implementing the principles of the integrated management of the marine and coastal environment.