The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ekthar Wildlife Development (Ekthar) to establish a cooperative framework focused on biodiversity, wildlife conservation, environmental science, and sustainable natural resource management. The agreement was finalized during the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) 2026. It was signed by Maitha Al Hameli, the Acting Executive Director of the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at EAD, and Frédéric Lacroix, the Chief Executive Officer of Ekthar.
The strategic partnership is designed to combine the scientific and technical capabilities of both entities. The collaboration spans multiple conservation priorities, including species recovery and reintroduction, breeding programs, genetics, biosecurity, wildlife health, biodiversity monitoring, and sustainable management practices. It also addresses culturally significant activities, such as falconry. Through these shared efforts, both organizations plan to investigate avenues for scientific innovation and research to support Abu Dhabi's marine and desert ecosystems.
Maitha Al Hameli emphasized that successful conservation relies heavily on integrating specialized scientific knowledge over the long term. She noted that the partnership strengthens the scientific foundation required to manage and shield regional species and habitats, illustrating a commitment to evidence-based conservation and the cultivation of local expertise.
Frédéric Lacroix acknowledged Abu Dhabi's science-driven conservation achievements and stated that Ekthar would contribute decades of applied conservation science to the partnership. He highlighted that combining their strengths in areas like conservation genomics, breeding, and biosecurity will help generate practical, evidence-based solutions that benefit the wildlife of Abu Dhabi and support broader conservation objectives.
Under the terms of the MoU, EAD and Ekthar will pursue capacity building, knowledge exchange, and applied science initiatives based on mutual agreement and in alignment with their respective organizational policies.
