This project is a collaborative effort with Nakheel, a subsidiary of Dubai World and creator of the large off-shore residential developments Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali, The World, Dubai Waterfront and Palm Deira now being constructed along the Dubai coast.

Project Objectives:

Our primary goal is to design and implement a long-term environmental monitoring program and sustainable management plan for the marine waters surrounding these large-scale developments. To do this requires a program of ecological/environmental research to understand the nature of the newly developed ecosystems and how they respond to weather and other environmental variables.

Dissemination of Knowledge at the Local, Regional and International levels:

This project will serve as a platform for capacity building in relevant aspects of coastal marine management for the UAE, the wider Gulf region, and internationally. We plan a series of training workshops on appropriate topics, research collaborations with members of the regional academic community, a series of triennial international scientific conferences as well as long-term mentoring of Nakheel and affiliated personnel. In this way we share the experience gained in Dubai waters and promulgate best practice for environmental sustainability in the face of major off-shore construction projects.

Project Activities:

The agreement was formally signed in January 2007. During its first six months, UNU-INWEH has recruited a small Dubai-based team to be housed within the Nakheel Environment Department. They are supported by a North America-based team including Principal Invetigators from three Universities in addition to UNU. The 4-5 year research and monitoring program has been planned, and needed equipment is being secured. Initial activities include training of staff, establishment of a marine environmental laboratory, and commencement of basic research studies to document the ecology of the ecosystems being developed, and to provide predictive management tools.

The first phase of the Environmental Monitoring Program is being implemented during 2007.

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