Abu dhabi: Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, has announced four conservation initiatives for 2026 under IMPACT by Miral, a strategic platform for funding and delivering meaningful social and environmental impact across Abu Dhabi.
According to Emirates News Agency, the four approved initiatives are focused on tracking sea turtle populations across the Arabian Gulf, advancing AI-enabled sustainable aquaculture, protecting the Arabian Sand Cat in Abu Dhabi’s deserts, and safeguarding the critically endangered Dama Gazelle. These initiatives are part of a focused, science-led approach to preserving the UAE’s marine and terrestrial ecosystems. They aim to leverage applied research, conservation genomics, AI, and data-driven monitoring to enhance biodiversity protection, support food security, and enable structured species conservation and reintroduction planning.
The inaugural meetings saw the Advisory Working Group propose key programmes aimed at protecting the UAE’s vital marine and terrestrial ecosystems and endangered species, in line with the Fund’s Conservation pillar. Led by Yas SeaWorld® Research and Rescue Centre, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain Zoo alongside leading researchers and conservation experts, the proposed programmes were presented to the Steering Committee for approval, co-chaired by senior representatives from Miral and the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an.
Taghrid Alsaeed, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications, and Events at Miral and Vice Chair of IMPACT by Miral, stated that the initiative was launched as part of their commitment to creating meaningful change. The approval of the four conservation priorities marks an important milestone in this journey, underscoring not only their ambition but also the strength of collective action.
Representatives from leading academic and environmental institutions form the Advisory Working Group and attended the meeting, chaired by Dr. Elise Marquis, Senior Director of Yas SeaWorld® Research and Rescue Centre. Attendees included Hiba Obaid Al Shehhi from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Maitha Mohammed Al Hameli from the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, Dr. Hany El Shaer from the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and several other prominent academics and experts.
Launched in partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an in late 2025, IMPACT by Miral serves as a catalyst for responsible growth, built on four pillars: Conservation, Arts and Culture, Health and Wellbeing, and Education and Skills Development. The fund is governed by the Steering Committee and Advisory Working Group, ensuring transparency, oversight, and alignment with Abu Dhabi’s environmental and social priorities.