Interim Coastal Development Guidelines

Interim Coastal 

Development Guidelines

الطبيعة و التراث 

الثقافي 

Natural & Cultural Heritage

His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan 

President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi

His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, 

Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and 

Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council

Coastal Development Guidelines 

UPC Mandate 

UPC Mandate 

The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) was created by Emiri Decree 

number 23 of the year 2007 and is the agency responsible for the future 

of Abu Dhabi’s urban environments, and the expert authority behind the 

visionary Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 Urban Structure Framework Plan published 

September 2007. Chaired by His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed 

Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Deputy Supreme 

Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi 

Executive Council, the UPC defines the shape of the Emirate, ensuring 

factors such as sustainability, infrastructure capacity, community planning 

and quality of life by overseeing development across the city and the 

Emirate as a whole. 

The UPC ensures best practice in planning for both new and existing 

urban areas. The primary purpose of the Urban Planning Council is to 

deliver upon the vision of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al 

Nahyan, President of the UAE, Ruler of Abu Dhabi for the continued 

fulfillment of the grand design envisaged by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin 

Sultan Al Nahyan and the ongoing evolution of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. 

By drawing on local Emirati urban planning expertise, throughout the 

co-operation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC), and around 

the world, the UPC strives to be a global authority on the future of urban 

planning and design. 

Building on the success of Plan Abu Dhabi 2030, the Abu Dhabi Urban 

Planning Council is pleased to issue the Interim Coastal Development 

Guidelines for Abu Dhabi which are contained within this document. 

7

Table Of Contents 


UPC Mandate 

1.0 Introduction 

1.1 Vision and Objective 

1.2 Applicable Area 

1.3 Land Use Zones 

1.4 Relation to Other UPC Planning Policy 

1.5 Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 

2.0 The Coastal Lagoons 


3.1 Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks 

3.2 Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots 

3.3 Coastal Conservation Zones 

3.4 Coastal Stewardship Zones 

Appendix 1 

Application Requirements 

Appendix 2 

Environmental Profiling of Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 Coastal 

Development Guideline Area 

Appendix 3 

Environmental Profiling of Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 Coastal 

Development Guideline Area - Supporting information 

Acknowledgements 

For More Information 

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28 

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35 

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Natural & Cultural Heritage 

11


Introduction 


The City of Abu Dhabi is fortuitously situated on an island set amidst the 

coastal lagoons and islands sheltered by the Great Pearl Bank Barrier. This 

tranquil natural setting embodies much of greater Abu Dhabi’s natural 

and cultural heritage, and provides valuable opportunities for recreation, 

relaxation and enjoyment of the mangroves, beaches and shallow lagoons 

all situated directly adjacent to the City. 

Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 intends that only limited development occurs 

within these lagoons, and indicates that a high percentage of these 

areas be maintained as undeveloped, open space. These Interim Coastal 

Development Guidelines represent the first step in advancing the 

Environmental Framework Policies outlined in Plan Abu Dhabi 2030. 

1.1 Vision And Objectives 

The specific objectives of the Interim Coastal Development Guidelines are to: 

• Preserve natural & cultural heritage for future generations 

• Provide opportunity for recreation, relaxation & enjoyment of Abu 

Dhabi’s unique coastal lagoon setting 

• Maintain the ecological ‘services’ provided by the lagoons, including 

shoreline stability, carbon absorption and water purification 

• Help shape Abu Dhabi as a City of compact, mixed use communities 

with a unique sense of place (by preventing sprawl along the coast) 

• Provide easy access & connectivity from the City and between the 

lagoons 

1.2 Applicable Area 

The guidelines apply to the largely undeveloped coastal lagoons that are 

situated adjacent to Abu Dhabi Island, extending from the Al Dab’biyah 

Peninsula northeast to the Hudayriat Islands, and from Abu Dhabi Island 

northeast to Ra’s Hanyoura, and also including the Ra’s Ghanada Lagoon 

northeast of Taweelah. 

Please see the map on page 23 of this document. 

13


Introduction 


The guidelines build on the echelons of the ‘Green Gradient’ introduced 

in Plan Abu Dhabi 2030. The basic concepts are retained whilst new 

terminology is introduced. Four land use zones are delineated and are 

described as: 

(1) Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks - 

no development is intended in these areas and only passive 

recreation, education and research activity which is in accordance 

with the EAD management plan approach and objectives for the 

areas will be permitted. 

Permitted Activity: Access to and usage of Protected / Proposed 

Protected Areas and National Parks will only be allowed if it 

accords with the aims and objectives of the management plan 

developed for each area. 

(2) Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots - Where only visitor 

facilities with minimal environmental impact are intended. 

Permitted Activity: Day use only consisting of visitor and related 

conveniences with no overnight accommodation allowed except 

for designated and supervised boat anchorages, camping and picnic 

facilities. Associated facilities and services will be of proportionate 

scale and sensitive to the ecological constraints of the parks. 

(3) Coastal Conservation Zones - Where only small scale, selfsufficient 

residential and visitor facilities are intended. 

Permitted activity: single family low density development and 

tourist accommodation in the form of lodges and guest houses are 

permitted along with self sufficient, ‘off-grid’ development and 

well managed recreation activities and related infrastructure. No 

large hotels, hotel-resorts or industrial development are permitted 

within coastal conservation zones. 

14


Introduction 

(4) Coastal Stewardship Zones - which may accommodate small 

coastal towns designed to achieve a high degree of selfsufficiency 

and sustainability. 

Permitted activity: Self-sufficient coastal towns, with compact, 

mixed use town centres and residential areas are permitted. 

Harbour-focused town centres should take full advantage of the 

waterfront location. The full range of land use is permitted in order 

to provide adequate employment opportunities for residents, as 

well as the full range of community amenities and services. No 

heavy industry is permitted within Coastal Stewardship Zones. 

1.4 Relation to Other UPC Planning Policy 

Given that only small scale development is anticipated, the UPC does 

not intend to produce master plans or more detailed planning guidance 

for these areas. These Interim Coastal Development Guidelines are 

being developed in greater detail, and the (final) Coastal Development 

Guidelines will be published in the near future. 

These guidelines impose requirements beyond the standard UPC 

conceptual application submission requirements. For more information 

on the UPC’s development review process please refer to the “For More 

Information” section at the end of this document. 

1.5 Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 

The UPC is the expert authority behind the visionary Plan Abu Dhabi 

2030: Urban Structure Framework Plan, published in September 2007. 

Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 is designed to assist Abu Dhabi plan for future 

development needs, establish a planning culture and introduce strong 

guiding principles for new development. 

Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 can be downloaded at the UPC website at 

http://www.upc.gov.ae or obtained directly from the UPC. 

15

2.0 Coastal Lagoons 




17


Introduction 

18


Coastal Lagoons 

2.0 The Coastal Lagoons 

The guidelines contained in this document apply to the coastal Lagoons 

defined below: 

Protected / Proposed Protected Areas 

and National Parks 

Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots 

Coastal conservation zones 

Coastal stewardship zones 

The Bul Syayeef Lagoon extends from the Ad Dab’biyah peninsula 

northeast to Abu Dhabi Island, and encompasses the Al Aryam, Al Bahrani, 

Al Fitesi and Hudayriat Islands. It includes dense seagrass beds, as well as 

intertidal mudflats and mangroves. 

The Inner Islands Lagoon is located to the northeast of Abu Dhabi Island 

and is bounded by Abu Dhabi Island, along with Al Saadiyat, Yas Island 

and Aldar’s Al Raha Beach development. The Lagoon includes some of the 

most extensive dense mangrove in the Emirate. 

The Ras Gharab Lagoon extends from Al Saadiyat and Ras Island northeast 

to Ras Hanyoura. The Lagoon includes Al Gharab and Bel Ghelam islands. 

The Lagoon includes extensive intertidal mudlfats that provide important 

habitat for migrating and naturalised shorebirds. 

The Ra’s Ghanada Lagoon lies between the proposed Khalifa Port and 

Ghantoot City developments. The largest and most diverse coral reef 

in the Emirate lies off shore and supports species of coral not found 

elsewhere in the Arabian Gulf. 

19


Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks 

Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots 

Coastal Conservation Zones 




Coastal Stewardship Zones 

21


Land Use Zones 

22




The UPC is responsible for the physical shape of the Emirate, as outlined 

above, and works to achieve this by regulating land use, density and by 

providing guidance on the scale and form of development, transportation 

and related issues. 

The land use zones described below represent a further refinement of the 

Environmental Land Use Framework in Plan Abu Dhabi 2030. Land use 

and development policies are stated, followed by a concise rationale. 

23



3.1 Protected / Proposed Protected Areas 

and National Parks. 

Policy PN1 

No physical development is intended within the Protected 

/ Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks 1 . 

Policy PN2 

Activities permitted within the Protected / Proposed 

Protected Areas and National Parks should accord with the 

EAD management plan approach and objectives for the areas. 

For the purpose of these Guidelines, the EAD has identified areas which 

warrant designation as Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National 

Parks 1 . 

The Abu Dhabi Lagoons Map shows three areas designated as Protected 

/ Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks, highlighted in dark 

green. These areas generally include dense and/or extensive mangroves, 

seagrass beds, coral reefs and/or important habitat for waterfowl. 

This special land use designation is justified by their ecological, aesthetic 

and scientific importance, as well as for their ecotourism potential. 

These areas provide an excellent opportunity to promote environmental 

education and awareness for all residents of the Emirate as well as 

visitors. 

The objective of the designation of these areas within this policy 

document is to provide a valuable contribution to the protection and 

preservation of these precious natural resources for future generations. 

The UPC aims to work closely with the EAD and other stakeholders to 

safeguard the areas from development, uses or activities that oppose the 

EAD management plan approach and objectives for the areas. 

1 Definition of physical development includes but not limited to 

any structure, excavation, clearing, infilling or dredging above 

below or on the land or water. 

2 The term ‘Protected/ Proposed Protected Areas, National Parks 

and Ecological Hotspots’ is used only as a land use definition. 

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25 


Land Use Zones



3.2 Coastal Parks And Ecological Hotspots. 

Policy CE1 

Policy CE2 

Policy CE3 

No dredging or reclamation or other physical alteration of 

the environment is permitted within the areas designated 

as ‘Coastal Park’. No development or alternative use 

is permitted with the exception of small scale visitor 

facilities and related services. 

No overnight accommodation is permitted with the 

exception of designated and supervised boat anchorage, 

camping and picnic facilities. 

Access is limited to ferries, small and non-motorized 

boats. Anchorage, boating activities and passage of larger 

sea vessels will only be permitted in designated areas. 

The Abu Dhabi Lagoons Map shows extensive areas that are designated as 

Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots in light green. These areas surround 

the areas designated as Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and 

National Parks. They are generally comprised of shallow intertidal areas 

and deeper lagoons, with little upland. They also include important natural 

habitat of inherent ecologic, recreational, and educational importance. 

The purpose of the Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots designation is to 

retain the recreational and environmental values of these extensive areas 

for the City’s residents, visitors and for future generations. 

Watersports and especially non-motorized boating are encouraged, 

and areas suitable for camping and picnic facilities will be designated 

in appropriate locations to serve visitors and tourists. No other forms 

of accommodation are permitted. Areas suitable for visitor centres and 

associated facilities will also be designated. Any docks, moorage or 

related infrastructure will be also be carefully designated and designed to 

avoid impacts to natural habitat. 

26

27 


Land Use Zones



3.3 Coastal Conservation Zones 

Policy CZ 1 The development of land within a Coastal Conservation 

Zone is limited to single family low density housing 

and eco-lodges, environmental education centers and 

recreational facilities. 

Policy CZ2 

Policy CZ3 

Development will only be permitted if located adjacent 

to the shoreline and must not exceed a height of G+2. 

Residential units must be clustered within small villages 

and be of a scale proportionate with the area of the island. 

All development must be self sufficient, ‘off-grid’ and 

have a small carbon footprint. 

Access is limited to ferries, small and non-motorized 

boats. Anchorage, boating activities and passage of larger 

sea vessels will only be permitted in designated areas. 

The Coastal Conservation Zones are shown in yellow on the Abu Dhabi 

Lagoons Map. These areas are comprised of islands and have been subject to 

relatively minor development in the past which is mostly in the form of private 

dwellings with little associated infrastructure. 

The Coastal Conservation Zones are considered to be an appropriate location 

for well sited and well designed low density residential development as well 

as small “eco-lodges”. The key principle of development within the Coastal 

Conservation Zones is to provide the necessary infrastructure and facilities in 

order to support the recreational and education activities in the Coastal Parks 

and Ecological Hotspots. 

Recreational facilities including a visitors centre is acceptable and the key 

objective of development should be to promote understanding and awareness 

of environmental issues and to provide low key sustainable eco-lodge 

accommodation for visitors and low density single family dwellings for 

residents. 

Development should not exceed G+2 in order to maintain the natural quality 

and tranquil character of the islands. All development should take the form 

of small villages located adjacent to the shoreline and all should be oriented 

towards the water. All development must be off grid and make best use of 

renewable energy technology to minimize its carbon footprint. 

Infrastructure will be limited and no private vehicular access or bridge to the 

islands is envisaged. This will encourage use of alternative, more sustainable 

forms of transport such as ferries, and small motorized boats. On the islands 

themselves the road networks will be minimal and serve only to provide 

residential access. 

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Land Use Zones



3.4 Coastal Stewardship Zones 

Policy SZ1 

Mixed use development is permitted with the exclusion 

of heavy industry. The Coastal Stewardship Zone should 

include residential, commercial and small scale light 

industrial development in order to promote a self sufficient 

local economy. 

Policy SZ2 

Policy SZ3 

The scale and form of development within the Coastal 

Stewardship Zones should not occupy a total area in 

excess of 200 ha. The development should include a 

mixed-use town centre not exceeding 33% of the overall 

area of the site with a maximum building height of G+4. 

The remainder of the site should consist of medium to low 

density residential development averaging 100 units/ha 

with a building height not exceeding G+2. 

The orientation and location of development within the 

Coastal Stewardship Zones should be designed so that 

each town has one focal centre and be oriented to the 

water with all amenities provided. 

30



Policy SZ4 Each centre must be served by a coastal harbor/ferry 

dock. The shorefront will be fully accessible and serve as 

public open space. 

Policy SZ5 

Policy SZ6 

Policy SZ7 

Policy SZ8 

Policy SZ9 

Development will only be permitted if it is served by 

sustainable forms of public transport which should link the 

islands to the mainland. 

Development will only be permitted if the infrastructure 

proposed makes provision for in-town transit, walking, 

cycling and other non-motorized forms of transport. 

Development will only be permitted where powered by a 

minimum of 50% on site renewable energy production (e.g. 

solar, wind, & biomass) and achieve a small carbon footprint. 

Development will only be permitted where provision for 

natural systems based wastewater treatment is made 

within the town site. Solid waste collection, separation 

and treatment should be undertaken within the town site. 

Development will only be permitted where its own 

(desalinated) water supply is generated by utilizing 

renewable energy sources (solar energy). 

The Coastal Stewardship Zone can be identified on the Abu Dhabi 

Lagoons Map as the brown areas. Most types of land use are acceptable 

here with the exception of heavy or polluting industries. 

The objective of these policy guidelines is to enable the development 

of small coastal towns which are totally self sufficient in terms of their 

amenities and facilities but also distinctly separate from each other with 

each having its own unique character and sense of place and strong 

cultural links to the sea. 

The towns should be orientated towards the sea and not exceed a height 

of G+4 in the mixed use town centre and G+2 in residential areas. The 

area of the towns should not exceed 200 ha and the density of the 

residential units should average 100 units per ha. The shorefront of each 

town should be publicly accessible or comprised of public open space. 

All amenities should be provided within each town in order to support 

a permanent and stable population. The economic activity in the town 

should be adequate to support the vitality and viability of the town and 

enable them to have self sufficient economies without competing with 

each other or the City of Abu Dhabi. 

31



The development should be served by sustainable forms of transport. The 

overall objective is for the community to achieve 50% of all journeys by 

utilizing public transport, electric vehicles, or by non-motorized means 

(e.g. cycling, walking). Primary access to the towns will therefore be 

limited in order to encourage the use of alternative transport nodes 

such as ferries or light rail, for example. Each town should have its own 

harbor/ferry dock. 

Every town should be served by its own waste treatment facilities to 

deal with municipal solid waste and sewage effluent and be designed to 

achieve a low carbon status with a minimum of 50% on site renewable 

energy production. Each town should have its own desalination plant 

which should ideally be powered using solar energy. 

32

Appendix 1 





33


Appendix 1 

34


Appendix 1 


Any application subject to review by the Urban Planning Council and 

within the Interim Coastal Development Guidelines boundary will be 

subject to application requirements above and beyond what is normally 

required by the UPC. 

The principal additional requirement is an ‘Environmental Context 

Statement’. While this is required for every application, further information 

may be requested by the Development Review Team at any stage of the 

application process. 

The information within the Environmental Context Statement should 

demonstrate that the guidance and policies within this document have 

been considered and should be reflected within the details of the 

proposed development. 

The Environmental Context Statement should demonstrate: 

• A comprehensive understanding of the ecological context within 

which the development is proposed; 

• That all environmental objectives have been taken into account in 

the conceptual design; and 

• A reasoned justification for the standard of environmental design 

and implementation that is incorporated in the development 

proposal. 

Proponents should refer to the most relevant/recent guidance provided 

as part of UPC’s Estidama Initiative, and as such are encouraged to apply 

for a Pearls Rating (once the Estidama Pearls Certification Process is fully 

established). Citing Estidama principles and guidance, and the certification 

process itself, will help proponents demonstrate compliance within these 

Interim Coastal Development Guidelines. 

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Appendix 1 

Proponents are also required to include a minimum of three A3-sized 

diagrams and include the following information: 

(1) Show the proposed development site in its ecological context, where 

the site occupies no more than 25% of the drawing. This plan may show 

the extent of major habitat types (mangroves, intertidal mudflats or 

seagrass, for example) that may occur, as well as providing photographs 

and other relevant drawings, notes and information. 

(2) Show the habitat types that occur within the development site. The 

site itself should fully occupy the drawing. This plan should also show the 

extent of habitat types that occur along with representative photographs. 

(3) One or more drawings indicating what proportion of original habitat 

will remain post-development. This plan should show any alteration of 

the pre-development topography that is proposed. 

In addition, proponents are encouraged to provide one or more additional 

drawings that show important areas in more detail. The scale should be 

appropriate and depends on the importance of the site. 

Examples follow that give an indication of the layout and content that is 

expected. 

36

37 


Appendix 1

Appendix 2 

Environmental Profiling of the Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 

Coastal Development Guidelines Area 




39


Appendix 2 

40


Appendix 2 

Introduction 

The area that Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 covers has been subject to major 

coastal development projects as the Abu Dhabi city expands and 

projects to boost and diversity the economy are supported. Some of 

the major threats to maintaining biodiversity of the area include coastal 

development, urbanization and over-exploitation of natural resources. 

As the city grows it becomes necessary to accord specific areas which 

contain sensitive and essential habitats some form of protection in order 

to preserve biodiversity and maintain natural heritage. 

Four areas were identified within the waters of eastern Abu Dhabi 

including Bul Syayeef, Ras Gharab, Ras Ghanada and the Inner Islands for 

specific conservation and protection consideration. The following report 

gives background information on the major habitats and species that 

occur within these four areas. 

41


Appendix 2 

Inner Island 

1. Key habitats 

Mangroves form the most prominent and important habitat in this area 

with seagrass beds interspersed in the sheltered lagoons. Similar to most 

mangrove habitats in Abu Dhabi, only one species of mangrove occurs 

in this area (Avicennia marina). The mangroves play an important role in 

protecting coastal areas from storms and controlling soil erosion. They 

also provide important nursery grounds for several commercially important 

fish species. 

The seagrass meadows of this area have not been well studied. 

Associated with the mangrove but on relatively higher ground beyond 

the reach of wave action and all but the very highest tides are salt marsh 

species such as Salicornia sp., Suaeda sp., Halocnemum strobilceum, 

Arthrocnemum macrostachyum, Cistanche tubulosa and Zygophyllum 

qatarense. 

The inter-tidal mudflats, important for many bird species particularly for 

migrating shorebirds are also widespread in this area. 

42


Appendix 2 

2. Species 

The mangrove habitat and seagrass beds support several species including 

sponges, worms, crustaceans, mollusks and algae. They also act as 

important nursery grounds for several commercially important fish 

species. Some of the fish species that frequent waters near mangrove 

habitats including barracudas, flatheads, gobies, jacks, trevalies, silver 

biddies, grunts, sweetlips, rabbitfish, mullets and terapons. 

Mangrove and tidal mudflats support a large number of bird species, 

mostly waders. Herons e.g. Western reef heron (Egretta gularis), Grey 

heron (Ardea cinerea) and egrets are commonly seen. Waders like 

Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata), Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus), 

Redshank (Tringa tetanus), and Greenshank (Tringa nebularia) are usually 

seen feeding on the mudflats (Figure1). 

Apart from these species Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) are 

seen in numbers ranging into several hundred mostly during winters 

in the area. Crab plovers (Dromas ardeola) use the inter-tidal area and 

the mangrove while on their local east-west migration in the country. 

Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), Greater spotted eagle (Aquila clanga) and 

Marsh harrier (Circus aeruginosus) are commonly seen particularly during 

winters. Apart from the species and groups mentioned many terns, gulls, 

pipits, wagtails are encountered in the area. The general bird list of the 

area is provided in Appendix E. 

3. Natural processes 

In order to maintain healthy mangroves, it is essential to allow for natural 

tidal fluctuations. Mangroves are generally found in areas that get under 

water during high tide and where the waves are not very strong. This 

area is shallow and sheltered from wave action by landforms that act as 

natural breakwaters. 

Some threats to natural processes include interruption of tidal and 

circulation patterns as a result of development projects. Additionally, 

mangrove areas usually occur in low energy environments, and increase 

in boat traffic can increase wave action, thus potentially disturbing the 

natural environment. 

Some of the mangrove plantations in this area have been badly affected 

due to surrounding landfill activities, and the burial of roots not allowing 

for respiration. In other areas within this basin, the mangrove plantations 

have remained healthy but are under threat as circulation patterns 

have been interrupted as a result of the channel being blocked around 

development projects. 

43


Appendix 2 

4. Other values (including heritage and socioeconomic aspects) 

Recent development of real estate in the area is debatable as far as costs 

and benefits viz-a-viz nature conservation. 

The fish statistics from Al Sadiyat landing site corresponds with fisheries 

taking place in the Inner Island basin. The inner islands are traditionally 

fished using a broad range of fishing methods during different seasons, 

thereby limiting the prospect of overfishing single species. To a small 

extent, Buhoor fishermen are found in these areas and the species 

composition of landings are shown in Appendix C. The whole-sale value 

of fish landings in 2008 were estimated at 1 million AED (Appendix D). 

The survival of mangroves is critical in contributing to fish stocks and 

maintaining the fishing sector which has cultural significance. On a 

recreational side, they can be important bird-watching areas and sites for 

leisure tours including kayaking. 

44


Appendix 2 

Figure 1. Bird species in the Inner Island and Bul Syaeef basins 

45


Appendix 2 

Bul Syayeef 


Bul Syayeef area is one of the most important in terms of having the best 

inter-tidal habitats in the vicinity of Abu Dhabi city. The area south of 

Aryam, close to the western boundary of this marine protected area has 

very good salt marshes and cyanobacterial habitats. 

The distributions of mangrove habitats are patchy and not as extensive as 

other areas. Seagrass meadows are found more extensively particularly 

in the eastern portion of the basin with Halodule uninervis being the 

dominant species. Coral reefs of this site have not been well studied 

except for a few ground truth points shown in the map. 

In this area Al Reem wa El Deman Island is in relatively good condition 

but has some developments taking place. Bu Sheef is a small island 

but heavily disturbed with many introduced plant species. Hideriyyat 

Island is partly made up of dredged material but at present is relatively 

undisturbed. 

46


Appendix 2 

2. Species 

Three species (Halodule uninervis, Halophila ovalis and Halophila 

stipulacea) are recorded in Abu Dhabi waters, but Halodule uninervis is 

generally the more dominant species. The seagrass meadows provide 

important foraging habitat for sea turtles and potentially dugongs. The 

seagrass beds provide important grounds for invertebrates as wells as 

nursery grounds for fish. 

More than 50 bird species are commonly seen in and around the area 

at any given time. The area is one of the most important habitats in the 

Emirate for wintering waterbirds, due to the presence of extensive intertidal 

mudflats, providing feeding opportunities to numerous shorebirds. 

The area is particularly important for the wintering Greater flamingos 

which are present in significantly large numbers in the area. At any 

given time from 1000-1500 flamingos are present in the area and EAD’s 

satellite tracking study has shown that it’s a key feeding and resting 

habitat for the Greater flamingos and was instrumental in declaring the 

area as Marine Protected Area (Figure 2). 

Nationally and regionally important species such as Crab plovers (Dromas 

ardeola), Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata), Swift Tern, Lesser Crested 

Tern (Sterna bengalensis) Western Reef Heron (Egretta gularis, Blackwinged 

Stilt (Himantopus himantopus), Greater spotted Eagle (Aquila 

clanga) can be seen in and around the area (Appendix E). 

The two main reptile species recorded in this area was the Shortnosed 

Lizard (Mesalina brevirostri) and Baluch Rock gecko (Bunopus 

tuberculatus). 

Generally there was a high diversity of terrestrial invertebrate species 

comprising of about 10 insect orders (e.g. Isoptera (termites), 

Hymenoptera (wasps, ants and bees), Coleoptera (beetles) and Diptera 

(flies), Heteroptera (true bugs), Neuroptera (ant lions), Lepidoptera 

(butterflies and moths), Thysanoptera (thrips)). Arachnids (spiders) 

were also recorded. Common species recorded were Green lacewing 

(Chrysoperla carnea), Grasshopper (Pygromorpha conica), Eleven Spotted 

Lady Bird Beetle (Coccinella unidecimpunctata). 

47


Appendix 2 


Seagrass meadows are important primary producers and contribute 

to the overall productivity of nearshore marine environments, similar 

to mangroves and coral reefs. Decomposing seagrass provides food to 

detritus organisms such us heterotrophic flagellates, bacteria and other 

microorganisms. Seagrass meadows also support several species of 

epiphytic algae, invertebrates and other benthic flora and fauna. 

They play a vital role in maintaining sea turtle populations. Although 

dugongs have not been sighted in this area, the seagrass meadows could 

be potential feeding grounds. Additionally, seagrass beds play a role in 

maintaining water clarity through filtration of contaminants and trapping 

of sediments. The maintenance of good water quality is essential for the 

health and productivity of seagrass meadows that require adequate light 

penetration to undergo photosynthesis. 

48


Appendix 2 

The natural tidal cycle is essential in bringing in nutrients and 

maintaining the productivity of the tidal mudflats and hence providing 

feeding opportunities to a variety of shorebirds and contributing to the 

development of salt marshes and cyanobacterial mats. 

4. Other values (including heritage and 

socioeconomic aspects) 

Until the announcement of Bul Syayeef protected area in 2007, buhoor 

fishermen exploited this area utilizing a broad range of fishing methods 

during different seasons in a similar fashion as described for the Inner 

Island Basin. Pre 2007 landings of Al Bateen shows the highest diversity 

in composition of fish species (Appendix C), originating from these 

fisheries which took place in Bul Syayeef area with a projected economic 

value of 3.2 million AED (Appendix D). 

Since 2007, no commercial fisheries takes place any longer inside 

Bul Syayeef protected area and all its buhoor fishermen have been 

compensated for the loss of their longstanding fishing rights. 

The area is particularly sensitive to the planned economic development 

on the south side of the channel. The proposed Abu Dhabi Industrial City 

(ICAD IV or III) and associated maritime time traffic could have potential 

implications to the important coastal habitats. 

49


Appendix 2 

Ras Gharab 


The fringing coral reefs of Sadiyat may be considered the second best 

reef in Abu Dhabi after Ras Ghanada. This is an important area for coral 

reefs as coral cover and diversity in this area are found to be good and 

Acropora sp. are found to be recovering. The dominant coral species 

found here remains Porites sp. During surveys in 2007 yellow-band 

disease on some Porites colonies were noticed. 

In addition to coral reefs, several other key habitats can be found in Ras 

Gharab including; seagrass meadows, patches of mangroves and intertidal 

mudflats. 

Inter-tidal mudflats and very shallow sandy areas are found in this area. 

At low tide vast areas of mudflats get exposed. Land forms and islands 

in this area have typical desert flora, some of the privately owned areas 

have been brought under plantation of various forms. Inaccessibility of 

most of the areas has resulted in less disturbance and conservation of 

natural flora. 

50


Appendix 2 

Ras Garab is relatively disturbed with human habitation e.g. houses and 

gardens. The presence of flowering plants was reflected by the large 

number of butterflies recorded. Also a sabkha species of gecko the Gulf 

Sand Gecko (Stenodactylus khoberensis) was recorded next to a sabkha 

on the island. 

2. Species 

The species composition of fisheries that take place in Ras Gharab are 

lower than in Inner Island or Bul Syayeef before 2007, but this could be 

due to the limited fishing methods used in this area and a focus on the 

more commercially important species typically: Shaari, Jesh, Hamour, 

Faskar and Kanaad (Appendix B and C). 

The seagrass meadows provide foraging grounds for sea turtles, and 

some of the beaches of Sadiyat Island have been recorded as nesting 

grounds for hawksbill turtles. 

Very high numbers of waders feeding on various organisms in the 

mudflats are recorded at appropriate times of the year in this area due 

to the availability of abundant food. In winters waders such as Dunlin 

(Calidris alpina), Curlew sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea), little stint 

(Calidris minuta), Lesser sand plover (Charadrius mongolus), Kentish 

plover (Charadrius alexandrinus) are recorded in thousands. This area 

is significant and a prime feeding area for Greater Flamingo, Osprey, 

Greater spotted eagle, Crab plover and Socotra cormorant (Phalacrocorax 

nigrogularis). High numbers of terns and gulls are seen in this area 

(Appendix E). 

The two main reptile species recorded in this area was the Short-nosed 

Lizard (Mesalina brevirostri), Baluch Rock gecko (Bunopus tuberculatus) 

and Gulf Sand Gecko (Stenodactylus khoberensis). 

The invertebrate density is medium compared to Bul Syayeef with about 

6 insect orders. 

(e.g. Hymenoptera (wasps, ants and bees), Diptera (flies), Heteroptera 

(true bugs), Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), Odonata (dragonflies). 

51


Appendix 2 


Coral reefs are important to the overall productivity of the coastal 

environment. They provide habitat and shelter for a variety of fish and 

invertebrate species as well as sea turtles. Additionally, corals play 

an essential role in the control of carbon dioxide levels in the ocean 

environment through calcification, thus creating structures that play a role 

in the protection of coastal areas from storm surges. 

Tidal movements of sea water are significant natural processes. The 

area is sheltered by land forms from high waves originating in high 

seas. Clarity and quality of water are also important in maintenance of 

seagrass and coral reef communities, as they depend on the availability 

of nutrients and light penetration for photosynthesis. Threats to natural 

processes in this area may arise due to the close proximity of a dredge 

burrow area. High turbidity was recorded during coral reef monitoring. 

Increase in turbidity in the area is a threat to coral reefs and could lead to 

a decrease in light penetration and thus productivity, or could even end 

up directly burying coral polyps causing death. 


Some of the islands in Ras Gharab have human settlements used for 

weekend recreation by the local population living in Abu Dhabi. These are 

not tourism related activities, but people trying to maintain their maritime 

heritage. 

The fisheries landings of Al Sadar correspond with fisheries taking 

place in Ras Gharab. This landing site has highest economic value with a 

wholesale value estimated at 4.6 million AED (Appendix D). In Ras Gharab 

there are no buhoor fishermen, and here fishermen are only entitled to 

Hadaq fishing (Appendix B). 

As Sadiyat Island develops into a global cultural and tourist destination, 

tourists of the area may take advantage of the coral reef sites for diving 

activities and the seagrass beds for snorkeling opportunities. 

52


Appendix 2 

Ras Ghanada 


The coral reefs of Ras Ghanada were identified as the best and healthiest 

reefs in Abu Dhabi. Fringing reefs occur here and the highest diversity of 

coral species is found. Coral cover in this reef is high and covers more 

than 50% of the seabed area. Dense branching corals such as Acropora 

sp. are found along with boulder and brain corals including Porites sp 

and Platygyra sp. Coral recruitment and regeneration in this area are 

found to be good. Some of the coral species found here are not found on 

reefs elsewhere in Abu Dhabi such as Pavona cactus. A checklist of coral 

species found in this area is provided in Appendix H. No diseases have 

been observed in this area and the health of the reef remains good. 

53


Appendix 2 

Moving landwards, we find a healthy patch of seagrass meadows 

followed by good distribution of mangrove habitats. The seagrasses of 

this area are not well studied. This site is the only one in which 2 species 

of mangroves are found to occur. In addition to the usual Avicennia 

marina, Rhizophoro mucronata a species that was presumed to occur 

in UAE historically has been experimentally planted successfully. The 

Rhizophora mucronata plants have grown to the flowering stage and this 

shows that Ras Ghanada is a good site for plantation of both native and 

other similar species of mangroves. 

The inland area, between Ras Ghanada and Taweelah has one of few 

remaining areas of coastal white sand sheet which provides important 

habitat to breeding Chesnut-bellied Sand grouse and also for Lesser 

Short-toed Lark, both threatened in the UAE. 

2. Species 

Several sea turtles have been found taking advantage of the abundant 

seagrass and coral reef habitats. Additionally, the beaches of Ras 

Ghanada have been recorded as turtle nesting beaches for the hawksbill 

turtle. 

No specific surveys have been carried around Ras Ghanada for birds, 

however many species of waterbirds, found in other coastal habitats 

containing mangroves, salt marshes and inter-tidal mudflats are expected 

to occur here too. 

This area has the Desert Gecko (Teratoscincus scincus) which is a rare 

species restricted to a very narrow range in the UAE along the coastal 

dunes and plains. This species has been impacted by development 

activities and it would be important to preserve some habitat in this area 

from further development. 

54


Appendix 2 


The maintenance of healthy coral reefs and mangrove areas are important 

due to contributions to overall biological productivity and also due to the 

natural defences that they provide to coastal areas. 

Some of the factors that influence coral community composition 

include; light availability, wave action, sedimentation, salinity, tidal 

ranges, availability of food, temperature and bathymetry. Increase in 

sedimentation from either shamal winds or dredging activities may cause 

sediments to remain suspended for some time and the turbidity reduces 

light penetration. Settlement of sediments on corals after prolonged 

disturbance may kill corals by burying them or chocking polyps. Changes 

in temperature can limit coral growth and reef development. 

With Khalifa Port and Industrial zone in close proximity to this site, some 

of the potential threats include the increase in sedimentation during the 

construction of the project. Additionally, increase in the number of ships 

may make the reefs more susceptible to anchorage and ship groundings, 

or release of ballast water causing a decline in water quality. Increase in 

nutrients, pollutants or discharged cooling waters from nearby industrial 

activities are also cause for concern. 


This area has been generally restricted to fishing activities, due to its 

close proximity to the Taweela power plant and several palaces. There 

are no fisheries statistics that have been recorded for this area. The Port 

and Industrial zone may cause a decline in inclination to use this area 

as a tourist destination; however, if the reefs remain healthy they could 

provide one of the best sites for diving in the UAE. 

55

Appendix 3 

Environmental profiling of the Coastal Development 

Guidelines area - supporting data 




57


Appendix 3 

58


Appendix 3 

Supporting Data 

Location of landing sites in Eastern Abu Dhabi Emirate 

Appendix B – Number of fishing trips by fishing 

method in 2008 (Bul Syayeef/Al Bateen pre 2007 

statistics) 

Appendix C- Species compostion of landings in 

2008 (Bul Syayeef/Al Bateen pre 2007 statistics) 

Appendix D – the wholesale value of fish landings 

realized in 2008 (in million AED) (Bul Syayeef/Al 

Bateen pre 2007 statistics) 

59


Appendix 3 

APPENDIX E – List of some bird species recorded in the 

respective areas 

SN. Species Scientific name Arabic name Status in UAE 

Bu Al 

Sayeef 

Inner 

Island 

Ras 

Gharab 

Ras 

Ghanada 

Importance 

1 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo 

sinensis 

2 Socotra Cormorant Phalacrocorax 

nigrogularis 

+ PM/WM غراب البحر 

(IUCN) RB + + + VU لبحر السوقطري 

3 Striated Heron Butorides striatus بلشون أخضر الظهر ‏)مخطط RB + + 

4 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis أبوقردان ‏)بلشون البقر PM/WM + + 

5 Western Reef Heron Egretta gularis 

schistacea 

RB + + + RI بلشون الصخر ‏)البحر 

6 Intermediate Egret Egretta intermedia بلشون متوسط V + 

7 Great Egret Egretta alba بلشون متوسط SM/WM + 

8 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea cinerea بلشون رمادي PM/SM/WM + + 

9 Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia أبو ملعقة PM/SM/WM + + 

10 Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber النحام ‏)البشروش(‏ الكبير SM/WM + + + RI 

11 Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus إوزة مصرية RB + + 

12 Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna الشهرمان PM/WM + 

13 Common Teal Anas crecca crecca حذف شتوي PM/WM + 

14 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos اخلضاري RB/WM + 

15 Western Marsh 

Harrier 

Circus aeruginosus 

aeruginosus 

+ + PM/WM مرزة البطائح 

16 Lesser Spotted Eagle Aquila pomarina عقاب أسفع ‏)أرقط(‏ صغير V + 

17 Greater Spotted 

Eagle 

Aquila clanga عقاب أسفع ‏)أرقط(‏ كبير PM/WM + + 

18 Osprey Pandion haliaetus 

haliaetus 

+ + + RB/PM/WM عقاب نساري ‏)عقاب السمك 

19 Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus آكل احملار PM/SM/WM + + + 

20 Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus أبو املغازل RB/PM + + + Threatened 

in UAE 

21 Crab Plover Dromas ardeola احلنكور MB/PM/WM + + + Small World 

Range 

22 Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus 

alexandrinus 

+ + + MB/PM/WM قطقاط ‏)زقزاق(‏ اسكندري 

23 Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus قطقاط ‏)زقزاق(‏ الرمل الصغير PM/SM/WM + + + 

24 Greater Sand Plover Charadrius leschenaultii قطقاط ‏)زقزاق(‏ الرمل الكبير PM/WM + + + 

25 Pacific Golden 

Plover 

Pluvialis fulva قطقاط ذهبي باسيفيكي PM/WM + + 

26 Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola قطقاط رمادي PM/SM/WM + + + 

27 Sanderling Calidris alba املدروان PM/WM + + 

28 Little Stint Calidris minuta دريجة صغيرة PM/SM/WM + + + 

29 Temminck's Stint Calidris temminckii دريجة متنك PM/WM + 

30 Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea طيطوي مقوس املنقار PM/SM/WM + + + 

31 Dunlin Calidris alpina الدريجة PM/SM/WM + + + 

32 Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa limosa بقويقة سوداء الذيل PM/WM + + NT (IUCN) 

33 Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica 

lapponica 

+ + + PM/SM/WM بقويقة مخططة الذيل 

34 Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus كروان املاء الصغير PM/SM/WM + + + 

35 Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata كروان املاء PM/SM/WM + + + NT (IUCN) 

60


Appendix 3 

36 Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus طيطوي أحمر الساق أرقط PM/WM + 

37 Common Redshank Tringa totanus طيطوي أحمر الساق PM/SM/WM + + + 

38 Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis طيطوي أخضر PM/WM + + + 

39 Greenshank Tringa nebularia طيطوي أخضر الساق PM/SM/WM + + + 

40 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus الطيطوي األخضر PM/WM + 

41 Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola طيطوي الغياض PM/WM + 

42 Terek Sandpiper Tringa cinerea طيطوي مغبر PM/SM/WM + + 

43 Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos طيطوي اعتيادي PM/WM + + + 

44 Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres 

interpres 

+ PM/SM/WM قنبرة املاء 

45 Great Black-headed 

Gull 

نورس أسود الرأس كبير ‏)نورس Larus ichthyaetus 

السمك 

PM/WM + 

46 Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus نورس أسود الرأس WM + + + 

47 Slender-billed Gull Larus genei نورس مستدق املنقار PM/SM/WM + + + 

48 Lesser Black-backed 

(Baltic) Gull 

Larus fuscus نورس أسود الظهر صغير PM/WM + + + 

49 Caspian Tern Sterna caspia خطاف بحر قزويني RB/PM/WM + Rare UAE 

breeder 

50 Swift Tern Sterna bergii خطاف بحر سريع MB/WM + + Threatened 

in UAE 

51 Lesser Crested Tern Sterna bengalensis خطاف بحر متوج صغير RB/MB/PM + + Threatened 

in UAE 

52 European Sandwich 

Tern 

Sterna sandvicensis 

sandvicensis 

+ + PM/SM/WM خطاف بحر ‏)خرشنة(‏ ساندوتش 

53 White-cheeked Tern Sterna repressa خطاف بحر أبيض اخلد MB/PM/WM + + + Threatened 

in UAE 

54 Bridled Tern Sterna anaethetus خطاف البحر األسحم MB/PM + + Threatened 

in UAE 

55 Saunders' Little Tern Sterna saundersi خطاف بحر سوندرز MB/PM + + + Small World 

Range 

56 Rock Dove Columba livia 

حمام جبلي ‏)يضم احلمام املستوحش 

RB + + 

57 Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto ميام مطوق RB/WM + + + 

58 Laughing Dove Streptopelia 

senegalensis 

+ + + RB ميام ضاحك ‏)فاختة النخيل 

59 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis صياد السمك ‏)الرفراف WM + + 

60 Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis rudis صياد السمك ‏)الرفراف(‏ األبقع WM/V + 

61 Hoopoe Upupa epops الهدهد RB/MB/PM/ 

WM 

+ Rare UAE 

breeder 

62 Crested Lark Galerida cristata قبرة متوجة RB + 

63 Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica rustica سنونو OB/PM/WM + + + 

64 Blyth's Pipit Anthus godlewskii 

جشنة باليث ‏)أبو مترة أو صعو باليث 

65 Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris 

جشنة الصحراء ‏)أبو مترة أو الصعو األصفر 

PM/WM + 

PM/WM + 

66 Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola 

citreola 

+ PM/WM ذعرة)فتاح(‏ صفراء الرأس 

67 White Wagtail Motacilla alba ذعرة ‏)فتاح(‏ بيضاء WM + + 

68 Isabelline Wheatear Oenanthe isabellina بلق أشهب PM/WM + 

61


Appendix 3 

APPENDIX E – List of some bird species recorded in the 


69 Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti أبلق البادية أو الصحراء PM/WM + 

70 Graceful Warbler Prinia gracilis هازجة رشيقة RB + + 

71 Upcher's Warbler Hippolais languida 

هازجة الشجر ‏)اخلنشع الشجري 

PM + 

72 Menetries' Warbler Sylvia mystacea هازجة ‏)دخلة(‏ منتري الرأساء PM/WM + 

73 Desert Warbler Sylvia nana هازجة ‏)دخلة(‏ الصحراء PM/WM + 

74 Green Warbler Phylloscopus nitidus نقشارة خضراء WM + 

75 Southern Grey 

Shrike 

Lanius meridionalis صرد)دقناش(الرمادي اجلنوبي RB/PM/WM + 

76 House Crow Corvus splendens غراب دوري RB + 

77 Common Mynah Acridotheres tristis مينة إعتيادية RB 

78 House Sparrow Passer domesticus عصفور دوري RB + + 

62


Appendix 3 

Appendix F -List of some reptiles recorded in the respective 

areas 

Location name Family Species Common name 

Hadariyat island Gecko Bunopus tuberculatus Baluch Rock Gecko 



Al Bahrani Island Gecko Bunopus tuberculatus Baluch Rock Gecko 

Al Bahrani Island Lizard Mesalina brevirostris Short-nosed Sand 

Lizard 

Sadiyat island Gecko Bunopus tuberculatus Baluch Rock Gecko 



Sadiyat island Lizard Mesalina brevirostris Short-nosed Sand 

Lizard 

Ras Garab Island Lizard Mesalina brevirostris Short-nosed Sand 

Lizard 


Lizard 

Ras Garab Island Gecko Bunopus tuberculatus Baluch Rock Gecko 



Lizard 

Ras Garab Island Gecko Stenodactylus 

khobarensis 

Gulf Sand Gecko 


Lizard 


Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Lepidoptera : 

Lasiocampidae 

Strebolte 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Lepidoptera : Pieridae Colotis 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Apidae Xylocopa 

63


Appendix 3 

Appendix G - List of some insect species recorded in the 


Location name Phylum (Animal or Plant) Order: Family Genus Species Common name 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Isoptera : Rhinotermitidae Psammotermes hybostoma Termites 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Formicidae Monomorium chobauti Ant 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Coleoptera: Dermestidae Anthrenus coloratus Carpet Beetle 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Neuroptera: Chrysipidae Chrysoperla carnea Green Lacewing 

Abu Saeef Island 

Arthropoda : Insecta 

Orthoptera: 

Pygromorphidae 

Pygromorpha conica Bush hoppers 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Coleoptera: Coccinellidae Coccinella unidecimpunctata Eleven spot lady bird beetle 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Heteroptera : Lygaeidae Dieuches schmitzi Ground bug 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Syrphidae Eristalinus aeneus Shiny Dronefly 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Apidae Apis florea Dwarf honey bee 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Collectidae Chalicodoma sp Flower feeding bees 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Collectidae Colletes inconspicua sp Flower feeding bees 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Coleoptera: Curculionidae Genus sp Weevils 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Homoptera: Psyllidae Genus sp Jumping lice 


Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Neuroptera: Chrysipidae Chrysoperla carnea Green Lacewing 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Formicidae Lepisiota opaciventris Ants 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Formicidae Anoplolepis longitarsis Ants 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Formicidae Monomorium fezzanense Ants 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Homoptera: Cicadellidae Neoaliturus tenellus Leafhopper 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Homoptera: Cicadellidae Helionida sp Leafhopper 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Homoptera: Cicadellidae Pergalia sp Leafhopper 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Formicidae Monomorium sp Red & black ant 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Apidae Pseudapsis nilotica Zebra bee 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae Genus sp Parasitic wasp 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Formicidae Componotus xerxes Desert giant ant 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Bethylidae Genus sp Bethylid wasp 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Arachnida Arachinidae: Aranea Genus sp Spider 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae Brephidium exile Western pigmy butterfly 



Lepidoptera: 

Microlepidoptera 

Genus sp Micromoths 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Thysanoptera :Thripidae Genus sp Thrips 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Coleoptera: Coccinellidae Scymnus sp Ladybird beetle 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Psocoptera: Lachesillidae Genus sp Booklice 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Empididae Genus sp Danceflies 



Neuroptera: 

Coniopterygidae 

Genus sp Dusty wings 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Bethylidae Genus sp Wasp 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Psocoptera : Lachesillidae Genus sp Booklice 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Thysanoptera :Thripidae Florithrips traegardhi Black thrips 



Neuroptera: 

Coniopterygidae 

Genus sp Dusty wings 



Lepidoptera: 

Microlepidoptera 

Genus sp Micromoths 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Formicidae Monomorium wahibiense Red & black ant 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Orthoptera : Acrididae Heteracris littoralis Yellow streak 

64


Appendix 3 



Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Heteroptera: Lygaeidae Remaudierana annulipes Seed bugs 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Asilidae Apoclea femoralis Robberfly 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Syrphidae Eristalinus aeneus Shiny Dronefly 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Coleoptera: Bruchidae Genus sp Seed Beetles 


Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Ceratopogonidae Genus sp Midges 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Formicidae Anolepis longitarsus Ant 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Genus sp Wasp 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Muscidae Genus sp Flies 

Abu Saeef Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Therevidae Genus sp Stiltoflies 


Al Bharani Island Arthropoda : Insecta Coleoptera:Tenebrionidae Apentanodes arabicus arabicus Darkling beetle 

Al Bharani Island Arthropoda : Insecta Coleoptera:Tenebrionidae Trachyderma philstina Scarce Stalker 

Al Bharani Island Arthropoda : Insecta Coleoptera:Tenebrionidae Mesostena puncticollis Opposum beetles 

Al Bharani Island Arthropoda : Insecta Coleoptera:Tenebrionidae Pimelia sp Darkling beetle 

Al Bharani Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera : Sarcophagidae Wohlfahrtia nuba Checker spot fly 

Al Bharani Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Crabronidae Philanthus coarctatus Wasp 

Al Bharani Island Arthropoda : Insecta Homoptera: Aphididae Genus sp Plant lice 

Al Bharani Island Arthropoda : Insecta Psocoptera : Lachesillidae Lachesilla bernardi Book lice 

Al Bharani Island Arthropoda : Insecta Thysanoptera :Thripidae Eremiothrips antelope Yellow thrips 

Al Bharani Island Arthropoda : Insecta Heteroptera : Tingidae Genus sp Lcae bugs 

Al Bharani Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Formicidae Monomorium wahibiense Red & black ant 


Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae Pimelia arabica arabica Arabian Darkling Beetle 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae Microdera marginata deserticola Darkling beetle 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera:Scoliidae Micromeriella hyalina Beetle wasp 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Carbonidae Tachysphex cheops Wasp 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Formicidae Monomorium wahibiense Common red & black ant 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Formicidae Crematogaster antaris Acrobat ant 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Formicidae Lepisiota opaciventris Common black ant 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Musidae Musca domestica domestica Common Housefly 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Asilidae Apoclea femoralis Robberfly 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Sarcophagidae Wohlfahrtia nuba Flesh fly 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Isoptera :Termites Psammotermes hybostoma Common Cyclops Termite 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Formicidae Crematogaster sp Acrobat ant 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Musidae Musca lucidula Housefly 

65


Appendix 3 



Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae Brephidium exilis Western Pygmy-Blue 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera : Syrphidae Eristalinus aeneus Shiney Dronefly 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Ceratopogonidae Genus sp Non-biting midges 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Odonata : Libelluidae Pantala flavescens Globe skimmer 

Sadiyat Island 


Orthoptera: 

Pyrgomorphidae 

Pyrgomorpha conica tereticornis Hollow grass hopper 

Sadiyat Island 


Orthoptera: 

Pyrgomorphidae 

Tenuitarsus angusts Grass hopper 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Heteroptera : Reduviidae Genus sp Assassin bugs 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Collectidae Collectes inconspicua Bees 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Pompillidae Genus sp Spider hunting wasps 

Sadiyat Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera : Bethylidae Genus sp Bethylid wasp 


Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Calliphoridae Chrysomya albiceps False Greenbottle 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Calliphoridae Chrysomya megacephala Winter greenbottle 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Musidae Musca domestica Common Housefly 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera : Sarcophagidae Wohlfortia nuba Checkerspot fly 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera : Asilidae Apoclea femoralis The Highwayman 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Bombylidae Bombylius niveus Beeflies 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera : Syrphidae Genus sp Hoverflies 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Lepidoptera: Pyralidae Spoladea recuvalis Beet Web Worm 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae Tarucus rosaceus Mediterranean Tiger 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae Brephidium exiile Western Pygmy-Blue 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae Tarucus balkanicus Little tiger blue 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Lepidoptera : Papilionidae Papilio demoleus demoleus Citrus swallowtail 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Formicidae Monomorium destructor Red & black ant 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Formicidae Lepisiota opaciventris Black ant 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Formicidae Crematogaster antaris Acrobat ant 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Tachinidae Genus sp Tachinid flies 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Ephydridae Genus sp Flies 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Diptera: Ceratopogonidae Genus sp Non-biting midges 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Heteroptera: Miridae Orthotylus pusillus Leaf hopper 

Ras Gharab Island 


Lepidoptera : 

Lasiocampidae 

Strebolte siva Acacia lappet 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Lepidoptera : Pieridae Colotis phisadia Blue spotted arab 

Ras Gharab Island Arthropoda : Insecta Hymenoptera: Apidae Xylocopa aestuans Canary Carpenter Bee 

66


Appendix 3 

Appendix H - Checklist of Coral Reef Species confirmed in Ras 

Ghanada 

Platygyra daedalea 

Platygyra lamellina 

Favia pallida 

Favia speciosa 

Plesiastrea versipora 

Porites harrisoni 

Porites lutea 

Porites Iobata 

Cyphastrea Seraillia 

Cyphastrea microphthalma 

Psammocora sp. 

Siderastrea savignyana 

Coscinarea columna 

Acropora clathrata 

Acropora arabensis 

Acropora downingi 

Turbinaria reniformis 

Taiama dosiderastreaPseu 

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69




The Urban Planning Council would like to acknowledge the assistance and 

support of the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi in preparing this document. 

Numerous individuals dedicated their time and effort to help compile 

relevant information and review this document and we would like to 

acknowledge in particular the Biodiversity section and Environmental 

Information Management / Abu Dhabi Global Environmental Data Initiative 

(AGEDI) team. 

The Urban Planning Council would like to thank the following individuals 

who provided valuable assistance in the development of this document: 

Thabit Al-Abdessalaam - Director, Marine Biodiversity, Environment 

Agency Abu Dhabi 

Dr Frederick Launay - Conservation Director, Emirates Wildlife Society 

Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak - Director, Emirates Wildlife Society 

Jim Heid – Founder and President, UrbanGreen 

Peter Hellyer - Archaeology expert and information advisor, National 

Media Council 

The Urban Planning Council would also like to acknowledge WS Atkins 

& Partners Overseas and Nautica Environmental Associates LLC who 

have graciously allowed the UPC to use the Environmental Context plans 

provided as examples in this document. 

70



For More Information 

This document was published by: 

Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council 

PO Box 62221, Abu Dhabi UAE 

Tel +971 02 409 6000 

Fax + 971 02 443 2903 

info@upc.gov.ae 

www.upc.gov.ae 

For more information on the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council, Plan Abu 

Dhabi 2030, or copies of the Plan or this publication, please contact: 

Mr. Fouad Kassem 

Associate Manager, Media Relations & Public Affairs 

Corporate Communications Department 

fouad.kassem@upc.gov.ae 

Tel. +971 02 409 6059 

For more information on the UPC Development Review Process or 

Application Requirements, please contact: 

Ms. Asma Al Arabeed 

Administrative Assistant, Development Review Coordinator 

Development Review Team 

Asma.alarabeed@upc.gov.ae 

Tel. +971 02 409 6123 

For more information on the vision, intent or content of these Guidelines 

in particular, please contact: 

Ms. Victoria Brown 

Associate Planner, Coastal and Maritime Areas 

Environment Team 

Victoria.brown@upc.gov.ae 

Tel. +971 02 409 6076 

71

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