Image Credit : Barracuda Diving Centre
More than 740 kilograms of marine debris were removed from the seabed off the coast of Fujairah during a large-scale clean-up carried out by volunteers, organisers said.
The operation brought together 134 certified divers and community members and marked the seventh and final activity of the national initiative, 7 Volunteering Opportunities in 7 Emirates. Held under the theme Guardians of Marine Life, the campaign highlighted the growing role of volunteerism in protecting the UAE’s marine ecosystems.
The initiative was organised by the Ministry of Community Empowerment in cooperation with the Emirates Foundation and the Fujairah Environment Authority. Activities focused on seabed clean-up operations and coral reef restoration, alongside awareness programmes aimed at encouraging public participation in marine conservation and habitat recovery.
Certified divers conducted detailed underwater work, removing discarded fishing nets, plastic waste and other solid debris from the seabed. Officials said the clean-up reduces threats to coral reefs and marine life, while contributing to improved coastal water quality.
Asila Abdullah Al Mualla, Director of the Fujairah Environment Authority, said hosting the concluding event reflects the emirate’s commitment to a nationwide volunteering drive launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in October last year. The initiative aims to expand the volunteer base to 600,000 people and strengthen a culture of giving across society.
She noted that strong participation in the Fujairah event demonstrates the community’s close relationship with the marine environment. Fujairah is home to five marine reserves along the eastern coast, supporting coral reefs and a wide range of marine species, and is recognised as a key destination for diving and eco-tourism in the UAE.
Al Mualla praised the collective efforts of government entities, community organisations and volunteers, describing the clean-up as a practical example of collaboration in environmental protection. She stressed the importance of sustaining such initiatives to safeguard Fujairah’s marine environment for future generations.
The event also included a panel discussion involving representatives from federal and local authorities, volunteer leaders, diving associations and fishermen. Discussions focused on strengthening community involvement in environmental initiatives and harnessing youth potential through sustainable volunteer projects aligned with the UAE’s long-term sustainability goals.
