Identification of Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAS) in the United Arab Emirates

This project aims to identify (KBAs) in the UAE following the Global Standard for the Identification of KBAs as sites of importance for global persistence of biodiversity. The project will produce a KBA report for sites in the UAE and establish a KBA National Coordination Group that will be responsible for monitoring KBAs in the future and keeping the KBAs of the UAE updated, including identifying additional KBAs as species distribution data improves.

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Identification of Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAS) in the United Arab Emirates

This project provides fundamental information to UAE decision-makers and helps achieve the following:

Mapping potentially sensitive areas that need to be considered and integrated in UAE development strategies and planning processes.

Supporting the private and financial sectors in managing their environmental risks related to biodiversity impact.

Identifying potential sites to be included in protected area (PA) systems or covered by other area-based conservation measures.

Monitoring progress towards global and national biodiversity targets. MAIN ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2021:

Conducting a training workshop for national experts in the UAE on the Global Standard for the Identification of KBAs.

Preparing the first draft proposal for potential KBA sites along with draft delineation of site boundaries and maps.

 

Project implemented by: IUCN ROWA, in collaboration with IUCN Global Species Programme and IUCN Mediterranean Cooperation Centre.

Project funded by: UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE).