National Geographic launches book on UAE

The National Geographic Society has launched a new book titled ‘Abu Dhabi, Nature Preserved’, in association with Total Abu Al Bukhoosh and the Total Foundation. The book is a significant work which received support from the Environment Agency. The Arabic version of the work combines scientific information on the UAE’s biodiversity along with the rich Arab lifestyle, culture and traditions. “The authority has been applying all efforts and methods to maintain all forms of life on the UAE land, air and seas,” said Shaikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi, and Chairman of Environment Agency, Abu Dhabi (EAD). He also pointed out the existence of many animals such as wild deer, bustards, falcons, dolphins and dugongs, for thousands of years and the ability of Abu Dhabi bedouins to master the art and science of not only surviving but also thriving in this uninhabitable environment. The discovery of oil changed the type of lands and visitors in the Abu Dhabi Emirate. In 40 short years, the Rub Al Khali region, the desert of deserts, one of the most arid in the Arabian Peninsula, has been turned into a green space, fields of vegetables and citrus fruit, orchards and garden-cities. “A blooming desert is one of mankind’s oldest dreams. Call it utopia, a mirage or mere folly, within my lifetime, this tremendous challenge has become a reality in Abu Dhabi, before my very eyes,” said Christophe de Margerie, Chairman of Total. Total Foundation and EAD, in conjunction with the National Geographic Society, decided to expand this narrative to encompass other aspects of nature conservation in Abu Dhabi, a city which, in this area too, sets an outstanding example.