EAD showcases innovative use of drones to plant mangroves in Bahrain as part of Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has showcased its latest drone-based mangrove cultivation technologies in cooperation with Nabat, a climate tech company launched last year by the Advanced Technology Research Council's commercialisation arm, VentureOne. The demonstration was conducted during a visit undertaken by an agency delegation to present this experience to His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa in the Kingdom of Bahrain, reflecting EAD's vision of establishing the principles of cooperation and exchange of expertise to advance the future of the region.The delegation included His Excellency Ahmed Al Hashemi, Executive Director of the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at EAD, His Excellency Shahab Issa Abu Shahab, Director General of the Advanced Technology Research Council, and a number of experts and specialists who provided a detailed explanation of the innovative experiment, in the presence of His Excellency Dr Mohamed bin Mubarak Bin Daina, Bahrain's Minister of Oil and Environment, Special Envoy for Climate Affairs, and a number of officials in Bahrain.His Excellency Ahmed Al Hashemi said: 'With a proven track record of rehabilitating 17,600 hectares, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi is now strategically deploying its expertise and innovative drone planting technology, in partnership with Nabat, to amplify regional impact. Our collaboration with our partners in Bahrain represents a deliberate effort to establish Abu Dhabi as a centre of excellence in environmental restoration, driving measurable progress and influencing regional policy for a sustainable future.'The method of planting mangrove trees with AI-powered autonomous drones offers many advantages, including low environmental footprint, cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and scalability, allowing the significant expansion of various ecosystems. Nabat's technology, developed by the Technology Innovation Institute, also ensures that mangrove restoration is data-driven and tailored to each unique habitat.Reda Nidhakou, Acting CEO at VentureOne, said: 'It was an immense privilege for us to join the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi in conducting a live demo of Nabat's cutting-edge mangrove seeding technology in Bahrain. EAD's ecological expertise has been invaluable in fine-tuning our technology, making ecosystem restoration data-driven, scalable, and customisable to each unique habitat. We look forward to continuing to drive nature-based solutions to climate change and are committed to being part of Abu Dhabi's leadership in using technology to address global issues.'
EAD's mangrove-planting efforts represent an effective nature-based solution to mitigate the effects of climate change and support the ambitious UAE initiative to plant 100 million mangrove trees by 2030, while contributing to the efforts of the UAE-led Mangrove Alliance for Climate.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arabian Business
15 minutes ago
- Arabian Business
Multiply Group completes acquisition of Spanish apparel maker Tendam
Abu Dhabi's Multiply Group has completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Tendam, Spain's second-largest apparel group by market share – its first major investment in Europe. Multiply now has a majority interest of 67.91 per cent in Castellano Investments, the owner of Tendam Brands and other subsidiaries. The deal will double Multiply's post-consolidation operational EBITDA. Tendam, one of Europe's leading omnichannel apparel groups, operates over 1,800 points of sale and runs successful digital loyalty programmes in over 80 markets, including Spain, Portugal, France, the UAE, and Latin America. Its diversified portfolio of 12 brands caters to multiple customer segments through such established names such as Women'secret, Springfield, Cortefiel and Pedro del Hierro. Tendam has recorded steady, quarter-on-quarter growth, strengthening its business model in core markets while expanding its international presence. At the end of June 2025, the company reported last 12-month sales of €1.4 billion (US$1.65 billion) and EBITDA of €340.7 million (US$401.2 million). With the acquisition, Multiply Group has deepened its investments in consumer-focused industries and established a presence in the retail and apparel sector. Samia Bouazza, Group CEO and Managing Director of Multiply Group, commented: 'This acquisition marks Multiply Group's strategic entry into the retail and apparel sector. By securing a controlling interest in a leading omnichannel platform, we are investing in a future-focused, high-performing business model backed by an outstanding management team. 'Built on strong, well-established owned brands, the platform offers the agility and vision to expand into new categories and scale emerging brands globally. With our expertise in creating synergies, deploying AI, and driving strategic M&A, we are poised to accelerate growth and unlock long-term value for our shareholders.' Multiply will fuel the next growth phase of Tendam, including further international expansion across Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. Embedding AI across all aspects of the business, from sourcing to customer operations, Multiply will support this growth journey and will leverage the digital infrastructure the company already has in place. It will also support the business with targeted M&A to introduce new brands and categories. Jaume Miquel, Chairman and CEO of Tendam, added: 'Today, we are starting a new era. We will fully deploy the Tendam potential, extending our brands to new formats, markets and channels supported by advanced artificial intelligence and digital technology, delivering stronger growth and profitability through a unique, unrivalled omnichannel brand ecosystem.' From a strategic standpoint, the acquisition offers Multiply Group a significant opportunity to leverage Tendam's strong brand platform and proven performance to drive future growth, supported by favourable consumer tailwinds in the global apparel retail market.
Arabian Business
18 minutes ago
- Arabian Business
Dubai real estate: DLD, Masdar City announce new partnership to enable free zone property ownership
Dubai Land Department has signed a memorandum of cooperation with Masdar City to allow companies and establishments operating in free zones under Masdar City to own land plots and properties under the freehold ownership system in Dubai. The agreement establishes a regulatory framework for this ownership structure. The partnership forms part of Dubai Land Department's strategy to enhance the competitiveness of the emirate's real estate market and expand the investor base by creating opportunities for free zone companies. The initiative aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Real Estate Strategy 2033. The Dubai Land Department and Emirates NBD sign a memorandum of cooperation to streamline real estate transaction processes and introduce innovative financial solutions that enhance the investor experience. The partnership supports the goal of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to… — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) July 22, 2025 Expanding freehold ownership in Dubai Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector at Dubai Land Department, and Ahmed Baghoum, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar City, signed the memorandum during a ceremony held in the emirate. Directors from both organisations attended the signing. Al Marri said: 'We continue to expand access to Dubai's freehold market through collaborative models that enhance the integration of the real estate ecosystem across the UAE. Enabling companies registered in free zones to own property in the emirate aligns with our vision of building a more open investment environment that offers diverse ownership options.' Al Marri described the partnership as a step that adds value to the objectives of the emirate's Economic Agenda D33 by diversifying the investor base and stimulating investment flows that contribute to market growth and sustainability. The initiative supports the leadership's vision of making Dubai the best city in the world to live and work, he added. Baghoum said: 'This initiative highlights Masdar City's commitment to supporting businesses with innovative solutions that address their needs. By simplifying property registration processes for companies operating within Masdar City's Free Zones, we are enabling them to expand their operations seamlessly while contributing to the UAE's long-term growth.' Baghoum said the partnership highlights the shared vision with the Dubai Land Department to create a business-friendly environment and reinforces Masdar City's position as a hub for innovation and investment. Under the memorandum, both parties will collaborate on developing a framework that includes eligibility criteria for establishments, along with the legal and administrative procedures required to complete the registration process. The cooperation will ensure coordination between the Dubai Land Department and the Free Zone Authority to simplify and expedite procedures. The partnership will enable data exchange and implement a digital system for online applications, request tracking, and document verification to enhance accuracy and transparency. The collaboration will provide guidance and support to companies to help them understand the legal and procedural requirements and foster an environment that encourages ownership and investment. The partnership aims to support companies' expansion plans by providing solutions that facilitate their entry into the emirate's real estate market. The collaboration reflects Dubai Land Department's commitment to adopting policies that enhance market flexibility, support efforts to attract investments, and contribute to building a business environment across the UAE.
Emirates 24/7
19 minutes ago
- Emirates 24/7
Meraas launches new phase of Nad Al Sheba Gardens
Meraas, a member of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has launched a new phase of its Nad Al Sheba Gardens development, adding 201 high-end villas and townhouses to the popular gated community. Reflecting Meraas' commitment to the growth and timely delivery of residential projects that offer peaceful family living within a tranquil, nature-inspired setting, the new phase includes a diverse range of residences, spanning spacious 4-bedroom and 5-bedroom villas, and premium 6- and 7-bedroom villas set across two floors, together with sophisticated 3-bedroom townhouses. Building on the success of Nad Al Sheba Gardens' earlier phases, the new collection of villas with sleek finishes seamlessly merges style and practicality. Contemporary designs, clean lines, and natural materials accentuate welcoming, light-filled interiors. Signature architectural details include stone accents, metallic tones, and panoramic windows. With sweeping views of Nad Al Sheba Gardens' verdant landscapes and its pristine water lagoon, the villas combine spacious, open-plan layouts with soaring double-height ceilings, striking a balance between elegance, comfort, and modern living. Designed to provide unparalleled living experiences, particularly for families who enjoy nature, the expansive 6- and 7-bedroom villas are situated around Nad Al Sheba Gardens' popular green spaces, Central Park and Spine Park, with residents also enjoying pool views. Spanning three floors, the 7-bedroom villas feature formal and family living areas, a spacious dining room, a show kitchen, a study, and a guest bedroom, among other amenities. Four en-suite bedrooms and a family room are on the first floor, while the second floor hosts a master suite with a spacious walk-in wardrobe and another en-suite bedroom, along with a generous terrace. One of Nad Al Sheba Gardens' main appeals is its commitment to family-friendly amenities and focus on well-maintained natural spaces. As such, a children's play zone, designed to be both safe and fun, is surrounded by lush greenery, providing families with the ideal environment to unwind while their little ones explore and enjoy. With its water features and communal seating that merge natural beauty with modern design, the thoughtfully landscaped Central Park helps to foster a strong sense of community. At the same time, residents can access the picturesque lagoons and landscaped areas directly from their gardens. As one of Dubai's most premium residential communities, Nad Al Sheba Gardens is home to a wide range of year-round facilities with opportunities for leisure, fitness, and relaxation. Walkable streets, cycling and running tracks, a multi-sports court, a wave pool, a yoga lawn, and a neighbourhood farm exemplify its holistic appeal. A top-tier school within walking distance deepens its appeal as a place where families can settle, live, and thrive. A recent addition to the nearby area, Nad Al Sheba Gardens Mall is a retail and lifestyle destination featuring a variety of stores, including Waitrose, diverse food venues, a nursery, and health and fitness services. Designed to be a vibrant place to enjoy meaningful connections, convenient shopping trips, and more, it reflects Nad Al Sheba Gardens' proposition as an inclusive, accessible, and desirable residential district. Conveniently located close to Dubai's Downtown District, with links to major highways and roads, Nad Al Sheba Gardens has proven to be popular with residents seeking a convenient and peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle while also enjoying easy connectivity to the emirate's world-famous collection of landmarks, shopping malls, dining hubs, and more. In line with Dubai's reputation as a global real estate destination, Meraas' diverse portfolio of master developments, land holdings, and properties includes iconic destinations such as Port de La Mer, Bluewaters Residences, City Walk Residences, Nikki Beach Residences, and BVLGARI Residences. Meraas prioritises sophistication and innovation to deliver exceptional residential experiences for a worldwide clientele.
