The development of a marine and coastal natural resource atlas: Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

The goal of the study was to collect, analyze and document environmental data for the sustainable use of Abu Dhabi's marine and coastal resources. Prior to the study there was no detailed ecological data relating to the marine environment; and with increasing development demands, and no data to assist in planning, the coastal and marine resources were under serious threat of degradation. From 1999 to 2001 extensive field research was undertaken to collect ecological data throughout the coastal and marine areas of Abu Dhabi Emirate. The program incorporated the training of UAE postgraduate students. The atlas program successfully documented data on the location and extent of coastal habitats, the distribution of marine wildlife and areas of international conservation importance throughout the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. All data was geographically corrected and checked for accuracy and completeness, and Arabic and English place names were assigned to all localities in the Emirate. The atlas program provided an opportunity for detailed scientific survey to be undertaken in an area where data generally had not been previously collected. It is envisaged that the atlas will contribute towards the protection of the marine environment, and facilitate sustainable coastal development throughout Abu Dhabi Emirate.