General Framework of the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031.

This General Framework of the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031 reflects a commitment to harmonizing economic and social growth, urban expansion, and industrial development with preserving nature and biodiversity. By implementing modern sustainable policies, tools, and technologies across all sectors, and fostering sustainable practices as a lifestyle, societies can thrive while ensuring the responsible use of natural resources for present and future generations. Aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, the UAE’s Biodiversity Strategy addresses growing environmental challenges and climate change impacts. Extending to 2031, it builds on previous efforts. It introduces a national vision with six strategic directions to enhance environmental, economic, and social achievements while promoting sustainable biodiversity at national and global levels. The Strategy’s primary aim is to assess, conserve, and restore biodiversity, ensuring the rational use and maintenance of natural systems for sustainable utilization and optimal investment for both present and future needs. This will be achieved through the encouragement of sectoral enablers, including (i) establishing an integrated governance system for conserving and preserving terrestrial and marine ecosystems; (ii) promoting the adoption and application of advanced techniques and technologies; (iii) encouraging scientific research and innovation in biodiversity conservation and protection; (iv) raising awareness, education, and building capacities and competencies in biodiversity conservation; (v) establishing and strengthening cooperation at national, regional, and international levels; (vi) facilitating the provision of financial resources to support biodiversity initiatives. This integrated approach ensures that biodiversity conservation is embedded across all sectors and decision-making processes, contributing to a sustainable and thriving future.
To achieve its goals, the Biodiversity Strategy outlines six strategic directions, 18 objectives, and 30 key programs and projects, addressing both short- and long-term priorities at the national level (1) Enhance and Improve the Status of Endangered Species and Their Habitats, aims to conserve, protect, and monitor key biodiversity areas; rehabilitate 80% of degraded terrestrial and marine areas of ecological importance; and protect at least 20% of terrestrial and marine ecosystems and their services. It also seeks to restore the status of locally endangered species by 10%, sustainably manage wildlife trade, control invasive alien species, reduce pollution risks to biodiversity, minimize climate change impacts and disaster risks, and enhance green and blue urban spaces for human well-being; (2) Conserve and Sustain Local Genetic Resources and Ensure Fair and Equitable Benefit-Sharing, focuses on preserving local genetic resources and traditional knowledge while ensuring equitable sharing of benefits, including digital sequence information. It also emphasizes sustainable management of desert agriculture, aquaculture, and fisheries using smart technologies; (3) Manage and Safely Utilize Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and Their Products, aims to enhance biosafety through effective measures for the management and utilization of GMOs and their products; (4) Adopt Modern Technologies and Foster Integration of Scientific Research and Innovation in Biodiversity Conservation, promotes the use of modern technologies and artificial intelligence while enhancing the integration and exchange of scientific research and innovation in biodiversity management; (5) Raise Awareness, Educate, and Build Capacities in Biodiversity Conservation, seeks to increase community awareness, encourage sustainable consumption practices, and build national capacities, expertise, and competencies in biodiversity conservation; (6) Strengthen Partnerships and Foster Collaboration at National, Regional, and International Levels, aims to integrate biodiversity values into decision-making frameworks across all sectors, encourage private sector evaluations of biodiversity impacts, and promote effective partnerships for biodiversity protection at regional and international levels.