Miral launches AI-driven conservation initiatives across Abu Dhabi

Miral has announced four AI-driven conservation initiatives for 2026 under Impact by Miral, its strategic platform for funding and implementing social and environmental projects across Abu Dhabi. The programmes — approved by the Fund’s Steering Committee following inaugural Advisory Working Group meetings — aim to protect the UAE’s marine and terrestrial ecosystems using applied research, conservation genomics, artificial intelligence and data-led monitoring.

“Impact by Miral was launched as part of our commitment to creating meaningful change. The approval of our four conservation priorities marks an important milestone in this journey, which underscores not only our ambition but the strength of collective action,” said Taghrid Alsaeed, executive director of marketing, communications & events at Miral and vice chair of Impact by Miral. “We extend our sincere gratitude to our partners, whose expertise and collaboration are fundamental to turning vision into impact. Together, we are contributing to a more sustainable future for Abu Dhabi by actively safeguarding its invaluable natural ecosystems. Through this shared commitment, not only are we protecting what matters today but also shaping a lasting legacy for generations to come.”

Initiatives approved for 2026

Four programmes received formal approval at the inaugural meetings. They were developed with leadership from Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center on Yas Island and Al Ain Zoo, and presented to the Steering Committee alongside contributions from leading researchers and conservation experts. Dr Elise Marquis, senior director of Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, chaired the Advisory Working Group session that reviewed the proposals.

• Tracking sea turtle populations across the Arabian Gulf, using population monitoring techniques to better understand distribution and threats.
• Advancing AI-powered sustainable aquaculture to support food security while reducing environmental impacts and improving monitoring of marine systems.
• Protecting the Arabian Sand Cat in Abu Dhabi’s deserts through targeted conservation and habitat management interventions.
• Safeguarding the critically endangered Dama Gazelle, including structured species conservation and potential reintroduction measures.

The approved programmes emphasise a science-based approach. Miral says the work will “utilise applied research, conservation genomics, AI, and data-focused monitoring” to improve biodiversity outcomes, support food security, and facilitate structured conservation and reintroduction efforts. Representatives from top academic and environmental institutions formed the Advisory Working Group to ensure technical rigour and partnership alignment.

Impact by Miral was launched in late 2025 in partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an and operates across four pillars: Conservation, Arts & Culture, Health & Wellbeing, and Education & Skills Development. The Fund is overseen by both a Steering Committee and the Advisory Working Group to maintain transparency, oversight and alignment with Abu Dhabi’s environmental and social objectives.

With the Steering Committee’s sign-off, Miral and its partners will move into implementation planning for 2026 activities. The initiatives signal a continued shift towards leveraging technology — particularly AI and genomics — alongside traditional conservation methods, and underscore Miral’s stated intent to translate corporate resources and destination expertise into measurable conservation impact across the emirate.