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Dubai Reefs Ecotourism: Floating Living Lab To Restore Marine Life | |
| Radhika Laghate |
URB has unveiled its groundbreaking initiative called "Dubai Reefs," a visionary project that introduces a floating living lab dedicated to marine restoration and ecotourism.
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URB has unveiled its groundbreaking initiative called "Dubai Reefs," a visionary project that introduces a floating living lab dedicated to marine restoration and ecotourism. With a focus on generating over 30,000 jobs within the framework of a green economy, Dubai Reefs aims to revolutionise the relationship between coastal cities and the ocean.
At the heart of Dubai Reefs lies a sustainable floating community, carefully designed to foster marine research, regeneration, and ecotourism. This ambitious project comprises various facilities, including residential, hospitality, retail, educational, and research components, all united in their commitment to environmental preservation.
Central to Dubai Reefs is the Marine Institute, an institution dedicated to safeguarding Dubai's marine and coastal environment. Its primary goal is to accelerate marine science and conservation efforts while simultaneously constructing the largest artificial reef, covering an expansive area of 200 square kilometres. This monumental undertaking seeks to create a haven for over 1 billion corals and 100 million mangrove trees, fortifying and revitalising marine ecosystems.
Eco Lodges Will Power from 100% Renewables
Visitors to Dubai Reefs will have the extraordinary opportunity to engage in immersive marine ecotourism experiences facilitated by a collection of floating eco lodges. These accommodations draw their power from 100 percent renewable energy sources, including solar and hydropower, and benefit from innovative wave farms that further contribute to Dubai's clean energy supply. The project also embraces regenerative ocean farming, an ecologically friendly approach to sustainable food production.
Baharash Bagherian, CEO of URB, underscored the significance of Dubai Reefs for both Dubai and other coastal cities vulnerable to rising sea levels. He emphasised the interdependence of cities and oceans, stating that the health of our cities is intrinsically linked to the health of our oceans. Bagherian stressed the need for an entrepreneurial spirit in coastal city planning, infrastructure development, and their connection to the ocean.
Dubai Reefs aspires to become a resilient and sustainable destination for ecotourism and marine research, setting an example for ocean living and effectively mitigating the impacts of climate change.