When Sir Bani Yas Island, in Abu Dhabi's emerging Al Gharbia western region, opened to guests, TDIC pledged to plant one mangrove for every visitor, ensuring tourists contribute to the preservation of Abu Dhabi's natural resources.
"The pledge has been well received by guests who are all eager to learn more about the island's eco-system," explained Lee Tabler, CEO, TDIC.
Guests visiting the island receive a brief on the environmental landscape of Sir Bani Yas Island, the former Royal nature-based reserve which is home to the Arabian Wildlife Park and its herd of around 400 Arabian Oryx - one of the largest of its kind in the world.
"This is a nature destination like no other in Arabia being home to a vast range of animal, bird and marine life, with protected waters and lush mangrove deposits," explained Tabler. "Conservation is at the heart of the ethos of the Desert Islands destination, which has Sir Bani Yas at its core."
TDIC's environmental department identified the need to expand the existing mangrove areas to promote the island's biodiversity. "Mangroves are a significant element in the marine and birdlife ecosystem of Sir Bani Yas Island as they exist as a habitat for many species of fish, crustaceans and birdlife," said Nasser Al Shaiba, Head of TDIC's Environmental Department. "Leaves that fall from the mangroves are broken down by micro-organisms to become the first link in the food chain for a large segment of the island's aquatic community - so every mangrove counts."
Guests on Sir Bani Yas Island also have the chance to enjoy the wildlife within the mangroves with the chance to kayak through the forests. This is one of a series of nature-based adventure activities available to visitors. Others include hiking, mountain biking, snorkelling and 4x4 guided tours of the Arabian Wildlife Park.
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Over 1,500 mangroves planted on Sir Bani Yas Island
- United Arab Emirates: Wednesday, January 21 - 2009 at 13:17
- PRESS RELEASE
Over 1,500 mangrove seedlings are planted on Sir Bani Yas Island, the nature-based destination which recently opened to international tourism - as part of a visitor pledge by Tourism Development and Investment Company (TDIC), the destination's master developer.
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About Desert Islands:Desert Islands is an escape from the ordinary where nature, wildlife and heritage blend on eight natural Arabian islands offering visitors the chance to discover, explore and unwind. The nature-based destination redefines tourism in the Middle East with its multitude of experiences including an Arabian Wildlife Park, nature reserve, rich heritage, five-star hospitality and outdoor adventures.
Desert Islands lies alongside the coast of Jebel Dhanna, a 250 kilometre drive from Abu Dhabi City. The destination comprises Sir Bani Yas Island, Dalma Island and Discovery Islands. Desert Islands is easily accessible from Abu Dhabi city and the mainland via several transportation vehicles such as sea and air transport.
The master developer of Desert Islands - Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) - is an independent company of which Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority is the sole shareholder.
Sir Bani Yas Island - a nature-based sanctuary was originally developed as a private wildlife reserve by His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the late UAE President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. Sir Bani Yas Island is being developed with a focus on nature and adventure, and is home to more than 23 species of free-roaming animals, including one of the world's largest herds of endangered Arabian Oryx.
Dalma Island - the cultural jewel of Desert Islands is a true symbol of UAE heritage mirroring an authentic Arabian lifestyle in a genuine environment. Currently 5,000 UAE nationals live on the island. The Desert Islands Education Centre (DIEC) provides Dalma's residents vocational education aimed at advancing career opportunities in the Islands' emerging tourism expansion.
Discovery Islands - an exclusive and luxurious retreat nestled on six natural islands, is home to a vibrant marine life and untouched animal habitats. Two islands will be developed into exclusive boutique resorts, while two others will offer camping experiences on untouched desert islands. The remaining islands harbour undisturbed breeding grounds for birds and turtles.
For more information, please contact:
George Chakar
TDIC
Tel: + 971 2 4061751
or
Firaas Salah
Associate Account Executive
TBWA\RAAD\PR Middle East
An exclusive Ketchum affiliate
Tel: +971 4 425 8986
Fax: +971 4 426 7334
Posted by Rana MesbahWednesday, January 21 - 2009 at 13:17 UAE local time (GMT+4)
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