UAE Official Spokesperson Discusses 20-Year Journey to Include Wadi Oraiya in UNESCO World Heritage List

Over the past two decades, teams from Fujairah have been working on a project that began with a directive from the emirate's ruler and culminated in a historic event for the United Arab Emirates—the inclusion of Wadi Oraiya National Park in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Achieving the Goal of Nature Conservation

Asila Abdullah Al Mualla, Director General of the Fujairah Environment Agency, noted that this achievement is not only a diplomatic victory but also the realization of a long-standing commitment to nature conservation, science, and the belief that the UAE's natural heritage deserves global recognition.

She told Khaleej Times: 'This is a proud and historic moment for the Emirate of Fujairah and for the United Arab Emirates. The inclusion of Wadi Oraiya National Park in the UNESCO World Heritage List is the culmination of nearly two decades of dedicated work on nature conservation, scientific research, and responsible environmental management.'

Challenges of the Nomination Process

Al Mualla emphasized that preparing the application for World Heritage status was not an easy task. It required extensive scientific evidence, a detailed management plan, international assessment, and constant interaction with UNESCO and IUCN experts.

According to her, one of the biggest difficulties was demonstrating the object's 'Outstanding Universal Value' according to the strict standards of the World Heritage Convention. This demanded many years of research, meticulous documentation, and joint efforts of interdisciplinary specialists from both the UAE and abroad, necessitating patience, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Uniqueness of Wadi Oraiya

When asked why Wadi Oraiya deserves international attention, Asila explained that the park protects one of the most vital freshwater mountain ecosystems on the Arabian Peninsula, supporting exceptional biodiversity in a relatively small area. It safeguards rare and endemic species, supports crucial ecological processes, and provides essential freshwater reserves in an arid environment.

However, in her opinion, the specialty of Wadi Oraiya lies in its management approach. 'Nature conservation has been based on scientific research, long-term ecological monitoring, strong legal protection, and partnership with national and international organizations,' she stated. This comprehensive method demonstrates how biodiversity conservation and sustainable development can mutually reinforce each other.

New Stage of Park Development

She stressed that this inclusion marks the beginning of a new chapter. The priority remains ensuring the protection of Wadi Oraiya's Outstanding Universal Value for future generations. Further strengthening scientific research, ecological observation, habitat restoration, sustainable visitor management, and environmental education are planned.

Future plans also include expanding international scientific cooperation, conducting high-quality research, and raising public awareness about the UAE's natural heritage. In conclusion, she emphasized that this landmark moment is a responsibility: 'Inclusion in the World Heritage List is not just recognition of what has been achieved; it is a commitment to what we must continue to protect.'