Abu Dhabi has started mapping its vast coastline to boost sustainable economic development in the remote areas. Abu Dhabi’s mainland coastline stretches over 764 kilometres and its waters include around 215 islands, which extend its coastlines to 1,671 kilometres. The oil-rich emirate also has a diverse and rich marine environment, which includes fragile wetlands, mangroves and an internationally important dugong population. These marine areas will become increasingly important contributors towards the diversification of Abu Dhabi’s economy, as they will help attract greater numbers of tourists. Plan Maritime 2030 has been devised with different components including spatial mapping of use and human activities for urban growth; national and Abu Dhabi-wide security; resource use and conservation; marine transport; industrial, ports and other water dependent uses; recreation and tourism; heritage and infrastructure, says Ibrahim Al Hammadi, manager, planning and development at the Urban Planning Council. Speaking to Khaleej Times, Al Hammadi said the strategy will analyse the supply and demand keeping in view the existing and future needs based on the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. “At this platform, we will share with the stakeholder’s information on the opportunities there,” he said. The plan will complement the objectives of the Abu Dhabi Policy Agenda 2030, Economic Vision 2030 and the three framework plans that form Abu Dhabi Urban Vision 2030 and the areas will be developed in coordination with government agencies, coastal and marine stakeholders and the community. It will cover all waterways and coastal areas within Abu Dhabi’s boundaries with a focus on seven key areas referred to as “Zoom-in” Areas. It will cover undeveloped western basin that includes the Al Yasat Marine Protected Area. The area between the Al Yasat and Marawah Marine Protected Areas centred on the principal settlement of Ruwais and includs Sir Bani Yas Island and Delma Island. The strategy will also cover undeveloped Khor Al Bazam, including all of the Marawah Marine Protected Area. The barrier islands, peninsulas and lagoons extending from Abu Al Abyad Island northeast to Abu Dhabi, would also be part of it, apart from Abu Dhabi Metropolitan Area. Other areas that will be mapped include Khalifa Port Industrial Zone northeast to the Dubai border and remaining waters of Arabian Gulf within Abu Dhabi emirate out to the Agreed Boundary Line. The plan will provide the guide on the sustainable development of public and private investments and initiatives within Abu Dhabi’s marine and coastal zone, and ensure equitable access to it, whilst harnessing the opportunities its diverse ecosystems and sheltered waters are creating for recreational and eco-tourism activities. The areas have been subject to major coastal development projects due to the continuing growth in the economy. “As Abu Dhabi is diversifying its economic base, the protection and preservation of its maritime domain will be critical and will require the effective planning and integration of disparate sectors and actors,” said Falah Al Ahbabi, General Manager, UPC. From Khaleej Times