After people were found collecting oysters in the protected areas, the authorities recorded an environmental violation inside one of the marine reserves in Abu Dhabi. Therefore, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has confirmed that any activity to breach environmental laws will put the violators in legal trouble and accountability. In addition, the authority has urged people to respect the conservation rules.
What Are Marine Reserves?
It is a protected coastal or offshore area where activities that could harm aquatic life and biodiversity, like hunting, fishing, etc, are restricted. Moreover, these zones are designed to save the marine habitats and support the natural growth of species without human intervention. So, we have listed the top marine reserves in Abu Dhabi below:
- Ras Ghanadah
- Saadiyat Marine National Park
- Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve
- Al Yasat Protected Area
Prohibited Activities in Protected Areas
The following activities are restricted in the natural reserves of the UAE under Federal Law No. (24) of 1999:
- Hunting, transporting, killing, or harming marine animals
- Damaging geological formations or habitats
- Introducing non-native species into the reserve
- Polluting soil, water, or air
- Performing military maneuvers or shooting practices
- Cutting trees or eroding soil
- Arranging recreational activities that harm natural life
- Any activity disturbing the natural balance of the reserve
Penalties for Violations
According to the Cabinet Resolution No. (120) of 2023, it is prohibited to dive for fishing or gathering aquatic resources without a permit. In addition, such offenders could face a fine of Dh1,000 for the first-time violation.
However, there are additional penalties under a federal law when such incidents occur inside the marine protected areas. So, it could include heavier fines and confiscation of the tool. In addition, violators could also face potential legal prosecution.
Authorities Urge Public Cooperation
The EAD highlighted that securing marine diversity is a shared responsibility. Therefore, residents, fishermen, and tourists are requested to get the proper permit for permissible activities and avoid disturbing the marine life.
Violations harm the fragile ecosystem and undermine years of conservation efforts aimed at securing the natural heritage of the UAE for future generations. Thus, it is an important responsibility to follow these regulations and contribute to saving the marine preserve.
In addition, it would be best to visit the official portal of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi for more details related to the marine protected areas and regulations.
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