From drones to a high-tech vessel: Abu Dhabi's EAD leads with smart tech in marine conservation

Al Etihad

10-05-2025

10 May 2025 08:55
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
With autonomous systems and smart technologies, the Environment Agency — Abu Dhabi (EAD) is pioneering a new wave of marine conservation efforts. In an interview with Aletihad , the authority elaborated on a number of breakthrough projects that are underway, from using AI in coastal habitat restoration to deploying a state-of-the-art research vessel to gather invaluable data from the sea. At the centre of EAD's marine innovation is the Jaywun research vessel, the most advanced marine scientific vessel in the Middle East."The Jaywun research vessel, launched under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), represents a significant advancement in marine conservation,' the authority said.Jaywun is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and facilities designed to conduct comprehensive marine studies."One of its notable achievements is the successful completion of the Fisheries Resources Assessment Survey conducted in UAE waters. Over a 108-day voyage, the vessel covered 324 sites and collected over 2,000 samples, providing invaluable data on fish species and their habitats."Jaywun also carried out the UAE's first acoustic survey of marine life, conducted large-scale eDNA and genomic sequencing for fish, and led a 10,000km aerial research expedition from Spain to Abu Dhabi. These initiatives were supported by global collaborations with institutions such as the Max Planck Society and The Cyprus Institute."The Jaywun research vessel directly supports conservation policies and species protection in Abu Dhabi. Equipped with advanced tools, it conducts fisheries assessments, eDNA sequencing, and acoustic surveys that inform fishing regulations and Marine Protected Area (MPA) designations."The vessel includes an onboard lab capable of rescuing and transporting marine animals, while also contributing to research on pollution, water quality, and climate change.
Utilising AI The EAD highlighted the vital role of seagrass meadows, describing them as the ecological backbone of marine biodiversity and climate resilience. These underwater habitats serve as nurseries and shelters for marine life — such as fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates — while also stabilising sediments, reducing coastal erosion, sequestering carbon, and enhancing water quality.The agency continues to lead research and monitoring programmes to assess seagrass health and fine-tune conservation strategies. Among its flagship efforts is the Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative, which deploys drone and AI technology for precision seeding of mangroves.
"The trials began as far back as 2020 with EAD's partners and have now resulted in the dispersal of more than 9 million seeds in the past two years alone," the authority told Aletihad . To ensure long-term success, EAD is also developing AI systems for restoration monitoring."An AI system is also currently being trialled and developed for monitoring the progress of restoration programmes over time. The key element for ensuring these technologies are successful is to have a thorough testing period that involves ground truthing and field verification grounded in extensive ecological expertise,' it said. Other advanced technologies include a 'Fish AI' system that automates fish identification to support sustainable stock assessments, as well as AI monitoring at Delma Island sea cage farms, enhancing traceability and aquaculture operations. Coral reef monitoring is also being strengthened with platforms like CoralNet and ReefCloud, with future plans to incorporate autonomous underwater vehicles for continuous observation.
Evidence-based Strategy EAD stresses that research is directly integrated into evidence-based policy and planning, helping guide sustainable marine ecosystem management."The agency has extensive monitoring, assessment, conservation and restoration programmes… integrated into evidence-based decision-making and policy formulation," it stated, adding that EAD also works across sectors to "advocate for nature protection and restoration and integrate nature into development plans'.To combat key challenges such as coastal development, climate change, and fish stock depletion, EAD uses a combination of marine protected areas, habitat restoration (corals, mangroves, seagrass), and sustainable fishing practices."Fisheries management is a good example of how Abu Dhabi balances conservation with growth," EAD said."With over 80% of catches from sustainably exploited stocks, we are using science, strict regulations, marine protected areas, and innovative technologies to ensure long-term ecological resilience."The agency's Wildlife Rescue Programme has rescued over 1,400 sea turtles and rehabilitated a dugong named Malqout, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to protecting vulnerable species."The agency identifies and protects rare plant species in Abu Dhabi's waters through comprehensive marine biodiversity monitoring and research programmes. They conduct regular habitat surveys and assessments to track the presence of these species and implement conservation measures."The EAD also tracks coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass, and fish stocks using satellite tools and global partnerships to continually adapt its strategies and align with international conservation standards such as the CBD and CMS."Community awareness and education play a crucial role in protecting Abu Dhabi's marine ecosystems by fostering a sense of responsibility and encouraging sustainable practices," the EAD said.