IMPACT by Miral Strengthens Conservation Efforts with Four Key Initiatives for 2026
Abu Dhabi, UAE – Miral, a prominent developer of immersive destinations in Abu Dhabi, has unveiled four significant conservation initiatives for 2026 under its strategic platform, IMPACT by Miral. This initiative aims to foster meaningful social and environmental change across the emirate.
The inaugural meetings of the Advisory Working Group focused on proposing essential programs designed to protect the UAE’s crucial marine and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as endangered species. The Yas SeaWorld® Research & Rescue Center on Yas Island and Al Ain Zoo, along with leading conservation experts, spearheaded these proposals, which were subsequently presented to the Steering Committee for approval. This committee is co-chaired by senior representatives from Miral and the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an.
Approved Conservation Initiatives
During these meetings, four initiatives received approval:
- Tracking Sea Turtle Populations: This initiative aims to monitor and protect endangered sea turtle populations in the Arabian Gulf. By analyzing rescue data and deploying tracking technologies, the project will identify key feeding ground hotspots, generating insights into sea turtle ecology and migration patterns. These findings will inform conservation policies and marine protection strategies.
- Advancements in Sustainable Aquaculture: This initiative focuses on enhancing the UAE’s long-term food security through AI-enabled monitoring and circular solutions in aquaculture systems. The program will explore methods to reduce waste, improve fish welfare, and develop automated underwater monitoring systems to better understand fish behavior and aquaculture performance.
- Studies of the Wild Arabian Sand Cat: Listed as endangered on the Abu Dhabi Red List, the Arabian Sand Cat is one of the region’s most elusive desert animals. This research initiative will utilize environmental DNA analysis, GPS tracking, camera traps, and AI-enabled data analysis to gain insights into the species’ population, distribution, and behavior in Abu Dhabi.
- Dama Gazelle Population Conservation: The Dama Gazelle, classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), is among the world’s rarest antelope species. This project will build on Al Ain Zoo’s expertise in conservation breeding, focusing on closing genetic knowledge gaps between captive, reintroduced, and remaining wild populations.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
Taghrid Alsaeed, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications & Events at Miral and Vice Chair of IMPACT by Miral, emphasized the importance of these initiatives. She stated that the approval of these conservation priorities marks a significant milestone in their commitment to creating meaningful change. Alsaeed expressed gratitude to partners whose expertise is vital for transforming vision into impact, contributing to a sustainable future for Abu Dhabi.
The Advisory Working Group comprises representatives from leading academic and environmental institutions, chaired by Dr. Elise Marquis, Senior Director of Yas SeaWorld® Research & Rescue Center. Notable attendees included H.E. Hiba Obaid Al Shehhi from the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Maitha Mohammed Al Hameli from the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, and various experts from local universities and conservation organizations.
IMPACT by Miral: A Catalyst for Change
Launched in partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an in late 2025, IMPACT by Miral serves as a catalyst for responsible growth, structured around four pillars: Conservation, Arts & Culture, Health & Wellbeing, and Education & Skills Development. The Fund is governed by a Steering Committee and Advisory Working Group, ensuring transparency and alignment with Abu Dhabi’s environmental and social priorities.
For more information, please visit www.zawya.com.
Detailed Overview of Conservation Initiatives
1. Sea Turtle Population Tracking
This initiative focuses on transforming rescue data into actionable insights to protect endangered sea turtle populations in the Arabian Gulf. By analyzing data and deploying tracking technology, the project aims to identify key feeding grounds and enhance marine protection strategies.
2. Innovations for Sustainable Aquaculture
This initiative supports the UAE’s food security goals by exploring AI-enabled monitoring and circular solutions to improve aquaculture systems. The program aims to reduce waste and enhance fish welfare, contributing to a sustainable aquaculture sector in the Arabian Gulf.
3. Studies of Wild Arabian Sand Cat
This research initiative will utilize advanced techniques to better understand the population and behavior of the endangered Arabian Sand Cat. The project aims to fill critical knowledge gaps necessary for long-term conservation efforts.
4. Dama Gazelle Population Conservation
Focusing on one of the world’s rarest antelope species, this initiative aims to develop a conservation genomics framework to support the global management of the Dama Gazelle. The project will enhance genetic knowledge between captive and wild populations.
About Miral
Miral is a leading creator of immersive destinations in Abu Dhabi, contributing to the growth of the leisure and entertainment industry. The organization manages a portfolio of world-class assets, including Ferrari World Yas Island, Yas Waterworld, and Warner Bros. World. Miral is committed to delivering memorable experiences while supporting the emirate’s tourism vision.
For more information, visit www.miral.ae.
Published on 2026-05-21 13:56:00 • By the Editorial Desk
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