Dubai-UAE: 25 July, 2017:  Al Zorah Nature Reserve in Ajman has been officially declared as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention, making it the seventh site in the UAE on the Ramsar List. 

The declaration recognizes the achievements of the UAE in the field of nature conservation and protection of endangered land and marine species. The Ramsar Convention, also known as the Convention on Wetlands, aims to protect wetlands, restore their basic ecological functions, and develop their economic, cultural and scientific role as well as recreational value.

His Excellency Abdul Rahman Mohammed Al Nuaimi, Director General of Ajman’s Municipality and Planning Department, said: “The designation of Al Zorah Nature Reserve as Ramsar Site No. 2309 places the protected area on the global map and highlights its immense environmental value. Known for its rich and diverse ecosystem that includes mangroves, sandy beaches, salt flats and lagoons, the reserve offers a safe haven for 108 animal species from corals and molluscs to fish and birds. Providing an ideal environment for certain marine species as well as native and migratory birds, especially during nesting season, the wetland site is also a highly sought-after destination for scientists and researchers to conduct field studies.”

He noted that the addition of Al Zorah Nature Reserve to the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance is testament to the success of the Ajman government in preserving the emirate’s natural heritage.  Previously listed areas include the Abu Dhabi Waterfront Reserve and Al Wathba Wetland Reserve in Abu Dhabi, the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary in Dubai, the Sir Bu Nair Island Protected Area in Sharjah, the Mangrove and Alhafeya Protected Area in Khor Kalba, and the Wadi Wurayah National Park in Fujairah.” 

Engineer Mariam Mohammed Saeed Hareb, Assistant Undersecretary for Environmental Affairs and Nature Conservation Sector at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, said: “The recognition of Al Zorah Nature Reserve under the Ramsar Convention is a result of the relentless efforts of Ajman’s Municipality and Planning Department to drive sustainability, protect the environment, preserve natural resources and instill a culture of social responsibility across the emirate.” 
Established by Amiri Decree No. 1 of 2004 to preserve the biodiversity and endangered plant and animal species within the territory, Al Zorah Nature Reserve is a protected area spanning 195 hectares around the mouth of the one-kilometer-long Ajman Creek in the Arabian Gulf.