DUBAI REEF initiative shows major gains in fish biomass and biodiversity

DUBAI REEF, a landmark reef development project and one of the world’s largest of its kind, is making remarkable progress in revitalising marine ecosystems off the coast of Dubai.

Recent underwater footage from its proof-of-concept site has revealed flourishing marine life, with an increase in fish populations and habitat growth around the deployed reef modules.

Scientific surveys conducted at the site show a notable rise in the presence of native fish species, including snappers, groupers, and barracuda.

Preliminary findings point to a 10% increase in overall marine biodiversity and an eightfold surge in fish biomass — strong evidence of the reef's positive ecological impact.

The project’s core focus, Marine Habitat Restoration, aims to fabricate and install 20,000 reef modules across 600 square kilometres of Dubai’s territorial waters by 2027.

Since its launch in 2024, 39% of these modules have already been fabricated, with 3,660 deployed to date.

Alongside habitat restoration, DUBAI REEF encompasses two additional pillars: Marine Life Rehabilitation and Marine Conservation Research. Together, these elements support a wider mission to protect and enhance marine biodiversity in the region.

Spearheaded by the Dubai Can sustainability initiative, DUBAI REEF was launched under the directive of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

The programme underscores Dubai’s long-term commitment to marine sustainability and environmental stewardship.