Conservation Projects
Dubai
It began with the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR). Along with the Dubai Government, Emirates developed this reserve that is now the largest environmental park in our country. It was the first UAE conservation area officially protected with a constitution and environmental law dedicated to ensuring its operation as a National Park.
The DDCR, which also houses the conservation-oriented Al Maha, a luxury collection Desert Resort & Spa, is almost 5% of Dubai’s total land mass (in the United Kingdom, this would be the equivalent of Northern Ireland being entirely national park). Apart from protecting several endangered species, such as the Arabian and Scimitar-horned Oryx, the DDCR is a major contributor to both local scientific research and conservation efforts.
100% of all visitor revenue from DCCR is spent on conversation and wildlife care, with Emirates also sponsoring a dedicated conservation team of eight.
Australia
After five years of planning, Emirates developed the 4,000 acre Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa, Australia’s first luxury conservation-based resort.
Nestled in the Wolgan Valley beneath sandstone escarpments, this environmentally sensitive resort is in keeping with the unique wilderness of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area in New South Wales. Wolgan Valley is a scenic three-hour drive from Sydney and the resort opened in October 2009. Set next to the Wollemi National Park and Gardens of Stone National Park, guests will enjoy a true wilderness experience during their stay. Emirates’ regards this project as an important way to assist in the conservation of Australia’s unique biodiversity.
The properties now owned by Emirates were previously used for cattle grazing. These have now been de-stocked and will be used for the conservation of the region’s endangered species and the reintroduction of native flora and fauna. Many species are missing from the greater Blue Mountains area. As most of these species are small, less than 7kg, they fall victim to introduced predators. Emirates’ research into predator control and protecting the habitats of these species will help conserve them for future generations. Recent sightings have included Red-headed Flying Foxes feeding on flowering eucalyptus trees and a large number of Bronze-winged and Wonga Pigeons. There have also been sightings of Honeyeater and Spotted-tailed Quolls in the tree lines along Carne Creek at night. This species (pictured) is at risk, not only from the fox and feral cat but also from baiting. This year has seen the Red-rumped Parrot increase in numbers along with the Eastern Rosella and other parrots. With more medium sized parrots available, the Peregrine Falcon will have more food for its young.
Already Emirates has planted thousands of native trees and shrubs and is removing feral animals and introduced plant species.