Question 1

What is DUBAI REEF?

Accepted Answer

DUBAI REEF, a sustainable initiative by Dubai Can, is the world’s largest single purpose-built reef development. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, first announced the landmark DUBAI REEF project in December 2023 at COP28. The pilot stage started in April 2024 and the deployment of the first 1,000 purpose-built reef modules started in November 2024.

Question 2

What are purpose-built reefs and what materials are used in the construction?

Accepted Answer

The reefs deployed in Dubai are purpose-built modules that are placed on the seabed to resemble the characteristics of natural reefs. They are designed to promote marine life, increase biodiversity, and enhance biological productivity. The majority of the reefs will be constructed using sustainable concrete, which is favoured for its durability and ability to foster marine life. In addition, the largest modules placed at the deeper depths will be constructed from steel to ensure longevity and structural integrity under marine conditions.

Question 3

How are purpose-built reefs designed?

Accepted Answer

The purpose-built reefs are designed to resemble natural reef formations, providing habitats that attract and support a wide range of marine organisms, including fishes, crustaceans, molluscs and other marine fauna by providing a substrate, thereby contributing to healthier marine ecosystems. The purpose-built reefs enhance the local productivity by providing a breeding habitat and a refuge habitat from predators. They also provide feeding opportunities leading to increased growth rates, altering local circulation patterns to improve larval fish recruitment, and providing settlement habitat to planktonic larvae. Additionally, purpose-built reefs are also widely used to support shellfish fisheries, such as oysters, lobsters, and mussels.

The reef modules are designed to last more than 100 years – a strategic investment set to leave a lasting legacy for protecting and sustaining marine life and its environment for generations to come.

Question 4

How many reefs are going to be installed as part of the DUBAI REEF project?

Accepted Answer

A total of 20,000 purpose-built reef modules of various sizes will be deployed over a three-year period and will span 600 square kilometres of Dubai’s waters. The meticulous design of these reefs will exceed 400,000 cubic metres in total volume.

Question 5

How are the reefs going to be positioned?

Accepted Answer

Purpose-built reefs will be positioned in clusters that are designed to collectively form a broad, complex breeding ground to sustainably conserve and increase aquatic resources and restore marine habitat. The site survey and assessment will determine the exact layout of the reef complex.

Question 6

Where are the reefs going to be positioned?

Accepted Answer

The reefs will be strategically positioned based on scientific assessments and marine surveys in depths between 18 metres and 28 metres in Dubai’s waters. These locations will be selected to optimise the ecological benefits, such as enhancing marine biodiversity and promoting fish population growth, while also ensuring there is no interference with existing navigational routes and other constraints. The selection process involves collaboration with marine engineers, ecologists, and local maritime authorities to identify areas that provide the best potential for ecological success without disrupting maritime activities.

Question 7

When was the project launched?

Accepted Answer

In 2021, an initial proof of concept was launched to analyse the effectiveness of purpose-built reefs in Dubai. Then in December 2023, during COP28, the DUBAI REEF project was officially announced.

Question 8

When did the project start?

Accepted Answer

The pilot stage was inaugurated in April 2024 by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The deployment of the first 1,000 purpose-built reef modules began in November 2024.

Question 9

When will the project be finished?

Accepted Answer

DUBAI REEF will see the deployment of 20,000 purpose-built reef modules over a three-year period. Following deployment there will be an in-depth post monitoring survey and assessment to ensure the reefs achieve their intended ecological goals.

Question 10

What are the benefits of installing a purpose-built reef?

Accepted Answer

DUBAI REEF's key drivers include enhancing biodiversity, safeguarding Dubai’s coastal and marine habitats, supporting fish populations, and increasing ecosystem resilience. The project will also encourage environmental stewardship, strengthen socio-economic prosperity and eco-tourism, and preserve Dubai’s marine heritage.

Question 11

Will the reefs have any negative impacts on the ocean?

Accepted Answer

Prior to the installation of the pilot reef modules, a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will be conducted to identify and mitigate any potential negative impact on the ocean environment. The EIA will help ensure that the materials and the positioning of the reefs do not affect marine life or water quality. Based on the outcomes of the EIA, the project will implement mitigation strategies to minimise any identified risks.

Question 12

Will the reefs cause any hindrance to sailing and shipping activities?

Accepted Answer

The reefs are suitably positioned in locations that will not impact shipping lanes and navigational paths. Locations are chosen in consultation with maritime authorities.

Question 13

What is the lifetime of the reefs?

Accepted Answer

The reefs are designed to last more than 100 years, providing long-term ecological benefits to the marine environment.

Question 14

Who is leading the project?

Accepted Answer

DUBAI REEF, a sustainable initiative by Dubai Can, is a collaboration of key partners from across the public and private sectors. The project’s strategic partners are the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET); Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority (DECCA); DP World; Dubai Chambers; Nakheel; Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC); and Emirates.

Question 15

How will DUBAI REEF support marine biodiversity?

Accepted Answer

DUBAI REEF will support marine biodiversity through the deployment of several innovative, purpose-built reef designs:

Reef Shade is designed to provide opportunities for coral establishment and increase demersal fish populations. The dome structure offers shelter and habitat for species such as hamour, sheri, and kofer. It is ideally placed in shallow, high-energy environments.

Arab Marine Pyramid is one of the most stable and adaptable reef designs, specifically engineered for the Arabian Gulf's underwater conditions. Strategically placed on soft sediment seabeds, it achieves an optimal profile and volume, making it ideal for fostering marine life.

X-Reef is specifically engineered to support marine ecosystems by offering complex shade, shelter, and habitat, helping foster the growth and productivity of various fish species and enhancing existing oyster beds.

Fish Cube features a large internal volume and an extensive surface area underwater. It is ideally deployed in lower energy areas, under 20 metres of water depth, creating an ideal substrate for coral and algae to establish themselves and offering vital food and shelter for a variety of fish species.

Fish Cave maximises surface area to volume ratio, creating a thriving man-made reef. Its deep-sea placement (more than 25 metres) minimises corrosion, ensures longevity, and promotes a rich marine ecosystem.

Ocean Castle, DUBAI REEF's biggest module, boasts an enormous volume of over 145m³, creating a haven for a variety of marine species. This carefully designed reef module includes sheltered spaces for demersal fish and a towering structure to attract pelagic species, fostering a rich marine ecosystem.

Question 16

What are the future plans of the project?

Accepted Answer

Future plans for the DUBAI REEF project include continuing the fabrication and deployment of purpose-built reef modules, with more than 20,000 units across various depths in Dubai’s waters. The project aims to establish a vibrant marine habitat for various species, including reef fish, hard and soft corals, sea anemones, sponges, and mollusks.

Partnerships and collaborations will continue to be formed to support long-term objectives, such as encouraging environmental stewardship, contributing to marine conservation research, and promoting eco-tourism.

Additionally, community engagement programmes will be launched to raise awareness and allow individuals and organisations to contribute to securing a sustainable future.

Question 17

What is the ultimate goal for Dubai Can?

Accepted Answer

The goal of Dubai Can is to reduce our reliance on single-use plastic. The reason behind that goal? We need to act now to help our planet. Across the globe we have created more plastic waste in 10 years than during the previous century combined – and 40% of all plastic waste in the UAE is single-use (Environment Agency).

Question 18

How long do single-use plastics take to decompose?

Accepted Answer

The lifespan of plastic is hugely variable. Plastic bags and disposable coffee cups can last 20-30 years but some products can take far longer to decompose. Plastic straws may take around 200 years to decompose, and water bottles, coffee pods and toothbrushes could take 450-500 years (wwf.org.au).

Question 19

Will it really make an impact if I start using re-useable bottles?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can absolutely make a difference! But we all need to make a change together. We can create a cultural shift in Dubai – of refilling water, recycling and forming sustainable habits – ensuring a cleaner and healthier city for generations to come. Our refill stations will play a huge role in that, providing chilled, filtered water at convenient points around the city.

Question 20

Where can I find water refill stations in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

You can already find drinking water fountains in some parts of the city, including Kite Beach, Dubai World Trade Centre, Zabeel Park and Madinat Jumeirah. Dubai Can will increase access to clean water by launching up to 50 new refill stations across the emirate. Residents and tourists will have access to crisp, clean, refreshing water in key areas around Dubai.

Question 21

What kind of water do the Dubai Can refill stations provide?

Accepted Answer

The water you will get from a Dubai Can refill station is very similar to what you would get from a typical bottle of local, branded water – which is also similar to filtered tap water. The process of desalination removes unhealthy impurities from water at its source, with another layer of filtration at the refill station.

Question 22

Where does the tap water come from in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

The vast majority of tap water and drinking water in Dubai is desalinated seawater from the Arabian Gulf. The rest of our water supply comes largely from underground sources or groundwater.

Question 23

Can I drink the tap (faucet) water in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Tap water in the UAE is safe to drink, according to the Conformity Affairs Department at the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology. The water goes through the process of desalination (removing any impurities) before it reaches your taps. Installing your own additional filter at home ensures the water is not affected by aging pipes or tanks.

Question 24

Will there be any Dubai Can events? How can I get involved?

Accepted Answer

Dubai Can is likely to host special events and activations once more refill stations are installed across the city. The best way to get involved is to register your business and install water filters. Contact us to find out more – and don't forget to refill!

Question 25

How can we (the public) make a difference?

Accepted Answer

Anyone in Dubai can adapt their lifestyle and choose more sustainable solutions when it comes to water consumption. Start by using refillable water containers and explore the water filter options from our preferred suppliers (above). When it comes to single-use plastic, consider the following options: refuse, reduce, re-use, recycle.

Question 26

How can we save sea animals from plastic?

Accepted Answer

Plastic is a huge threat to marine wildlife because of microplastics. The tiny pieces appear as a result of plastic degradation and are often toxic, impacting reproduction and causing diseases. Animals that ingest microplastics may suffer for months or years before they die (worldanimalprotection.org.au).

Question 27

How many animals die because of plastic?

Accepted Answer

It is estimated that 100,000 marine creatures die as a result of plastic entanglement every year. The numbers could be higher since many incidents are not observed. In addition, approximately one million sea birds also die as a result of plastic, which includes ingestion (oceancrusaders.org).

Question 28

How can my business get involved?

Accepted Answer

Your business can take part in Dubai Can and help pioneer a culture of sustainability. Contact us if you would like to know more about sponsoring a Dubai Can refill station.

Question 29

Why should we we reduce, re-use and recycle plastic?

Accepted Answer

Cutting down on the use of plastic will reduce its environmental impact. Some types of plastic, including polyethylene terephthalate, is used for bottles and is often recycled to create things like polyester fabric or automotive parts. However, a staggering 91% of all plastics are not recycled at all. That means they end up in landfills, or within the environment – including the ocean (nrdc.org).

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DUBAI REEF

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