Based on its climate and biodiversity leadership, the UAE has joined the High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy (Ocean Panel), becoming the first country in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to participate.

Established in 2018 and co-chaired by Norway and Palau, the Ocean Panel aims to address the ocean’s emergency due to climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Through its membership, the UAE seeks to advocate for sustainable management practices that can help preserve ocean health and promote sustainable economic development.

In addition to its co-chairs, Norway and Palau, the Ocean Panel comprises Australia, Canada, Chile, Fiji, France, Ghana, Indonesia, Jamaica, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Namibia, Portugal, Seychelles, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Collectively, these 19 nations account for 50% of the world’s coastlines, 21% of global fisheries, and 23% of the world’s shipping fleet.

Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, President of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), has been appointed the UAE’s Sherpa and High-Level Representative to the Ocean Panel.

“A healthy ocean is key to sustaining life on our blue planet. It is the world’s largest ecosystem, regulates the climate, and supplies valuable resources,” said Al Mubarak, UN Climate Change High Level Champion for the leadership team of COP28 UAE.

She added that protecting the ocean will help reduce greenhouse emissions and support sustainable livelihoods worldwide.

“To truly succeed, we must align and integrate efforts across key global frameworks, such as the Global Biodiversity Framework’s ambitious 30×30 target, the SDGs, and the Paris Agreement’s 1.5C degree goal. This synergy will unlock critical co-benefits for biodiversity, climate resilience and long-term economic prosperity,” said Al Mubarak.

As a member of the Ocean Panel, the UAE is set to draft and implement a Sustainable Ocean Plan that will encompass several key measures. These include marine spatial planning, integrated coastal management, protecting marine areas, and strategic investments in emerging sectors.

“It is with great enthusiasm that I welcome the UAE to the Ocean Panel at a time when momentum is growing toward 100% sustainable ocean management,” said Ocean Panel Co-chair and President of Palau, His Excellency Surangel Whipps Jr. 

“We know we cannot achieve a sustainable ocean economy if some ocean areas are managed sustainably while others are left open to exploitation. This is another step toward our 100% goal and safeguarding the ocean for generations to come.”

The UAE will also host the 2026 UN Water Conference, including a review of progress and new announcements on ocean commitments.

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