The MENA Oceans Network

Launched at COP28 UAE in the Ocean Pavilion, this network garnered high-level support from global ocean leaders, including UN Secretary General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean, Amb. Peter Thomson; Ocean Lead of the UN Climate Change High Level Champions Team, Ignace Beguin Billecocq; Chief Economist at the UN-UAE Resident Office, Dr. Raidan Al Saqqaf; and Executive Director of the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, Ahmed Al Hashmi. 

With a mission to accelerate ocean action, this network brings together policymakers, academics, researchers, private sector innovators, and community members to drive impactful change. Focusing on conserving and restoring ocean ecosystems, catalyzing sustainable blue economies, and building awareness on critical ocean issues, the MENA Oceans Network aims to break silos and foster partnerships that address pressing challenges. Through its comprehensive approach, which includes knowledge sharing, targeted action on critical gaps, and community outreach, this initiative is poised to become a pivotal force in regional ocean conservation and sustainable development, ensuring a resilient future for the MENA region’s marine environments and coastal communities.