Abu dhabi: In the presence of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. This partnership aims to launch a comprehensive training program to bolster the capabilities of rangers within the Sheikh Zayed Protected Areas Network and ensure sustainable management of these regions.
According to Emirates News Agency, the MoU was formalized during the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX 2026). Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, and Dr. Mubarak Saeed Al Shamsi, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Abu Dhabi Nature Academy, signed the agreement. This collaboration is a strategic move to invest in national talent dedicated to protecting Abu Dhabi's critical natural areas, combining EAD's expertise in environmental protection with the academy's specialized knowledge in education and capacity building.
The partnership focuses on developing national competencies, advancing conservation efforts, and reinforcing Abu Dhabi's status as a leading regional center for environmental protection. The training program is designed to equip nature reserve rangers with advanced technical and field skills necessary for safeguarding the emirate's natural reserves. Cooperation areas include modern monitoring technologies, smart environmental conservation, eco-tourism management, and leadership skills development, structured in stages to ensure long-term impact.
H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted the importance of following the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, emphasizing the commitment to enhancing the sustainability of nature reserves and advancing environmental conservation efforts. Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri reiterated the national responsibility of protecting Abu Dhabi's natural heritage and building a generation of skilled national talent for future environmental safeguarding.
Dr. Mubarak Saeed Al Shamsi emphasized the importance of equipping rangers with field-ready skills to uphold Abu Dhabi's leading system for preserving its natural heritage. The collaboration with EAD aims to strengthen this system and prepare rangers to manage environmental responsibilities effectively.
The signing occurred during ADIHEX 2026, the largest in the exhibition's history, which celebrates the region's heritage in hunting, equestrianism, and outdoor activities while promoting wildlife conservation and sustainable practices. Abu Dhabi Nature Academy, part of the Ekthar Wildlife Development Group affiliated with Erth Zayed Philanthropies, is committed to developing qualified professionals who contribute to nature conservation efforts locally and internationally.
The academy focuses on applied vocational education, professional training, and capacity-building programs to build expertise in biodiversity management, biosecurity, and conservation technology. By partnering with government entities, academic institutions, and conservation organizations, the academy supports Abu Dhabi's ambition to become a global center of excellence in nature education and conservation solutions.