IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 opened in Abu Dhabi under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. And Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, attended the opening ceremony of this major international event. Held for the first time in the GCC region, the congress carries the theme “Powering Transformative Conservation.”
Sheikh Khaled highlighted that environmental protection is a vital part of the UAE’s national development strategy. He said the UAE has become a global model in conserving nature and ensuring the sustainability of its natural resources. He also pointed out that more than 15 percent of the country’s total land area is now designated as protected zones.
The IUCN World Conservation Congress gathered world leaders, ministers, and environmental experts. The event was attended by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak. And Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri. Along with global conservation figures like Dr Sylvia Earle, Surangel Whipps Jr, and Princess Lalla Hasnaa.
Hosting this global congress underlines the UAE’s strong commitment to sustainability and international cooperation. It supports the National Biodiversity Strategy 2031, which aims to protect endangered species, restore ecosystems, and promote green growth.
The event also strengthens the UAE’s role in advancing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and achieving 2030 climate goals. Reinforcing its leadership in promoting environmental balance and a sustainable future.
