DUBAI, 29th May, 2014 (WAM)--Reference to Law No. (11) of 2003 on the Establishment of Protected Areas in the Emirate of Dubai, Vice President and Prime Minister, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in his capacity as Ruler of Dubai, has issued Decree No. (22) of 2014 regarding the establishment of six new wildlife sanctuaries in the Emirate of Dubai.
Pursuant to the new Decree, the six new wildlife sanctuaries are: Al Ghaf Conservation of Nazwa, Al Marmoum Desert Reserve, Al Wohoosh Desert Conservation Area, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Hatta Mountain Conservation Area and Jabal Nazwa Conservation Area.
The wildlife sanctuaries defined in the decree are managed by Dubai Municipality or through any other entity assigned by the municipality.
This legislation aims to protect natural habitats and wildlife in the Emirate of Dubai and to preserve the natural resources in these areas. Additionally, the decree intends to develop and promote ecotourism by establishing new wildlife preservations and enable them to achieve the objectives as prescribed in the Law on the Establishment of Protected Areas.
Director General of Dubai Municipality Engineer Hussain Lootah asserted the UAE s ranking on the Environmental Performance Index has jumped from 152 in 2010 to 77 in 2012 and the UAE has achieved the top rankings in three subcategories, which are preservation of forests, air quality and water and sanitation.
Lootah expects that the UAE will continue progressing during 2014 to line up with the top 30 countries. This effort mirrors the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, to enhance the country s competitiveness in all fields, including the environment.
WAM/Majok