Atlantis Dubai releases 20 sharks and...

Conservation efforts have resulted in the rearing and release of 68 endangered marine animals since 2019

Atlantis Dubai has released three honeycomb stingrays and 20 sub-adult Arabian carpet sharks into the Arabian Gulf.

This initiative, part of the Atlantis Atlas Project, is a continuation of the destination’s ongoing support for marine conservation efforts, and brings the total number of releases to 58 sharks and 10 rays since 2019.

Native to the region, Arabian carpet sharks and honeycomb stingrays are found off the coast in coral reefs, lagoons, rocky shores, muddy bottoms and mangroves. Once densely populated in the waters of the UAE, overfishing and coastal development have threatened ecosystems and the sea life that lives within it.

More than one-third of sharks and rays are now considered threatened. In an effort to safeguard the futures of the species, Atlantis breeds the marine animals in captivity, where marine scientists carefully rear and nurture the creatures in Atlantis, The Palm’s dedicated fish hospital.

All hatched at the Dubai resort, the marine animals recently released at the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary were aged between eight to 10 months.

Kelly Timmins, Executive Director of Sustainability and Marine Animal Operations, Atlantis Dubai, said: “Atlantis Dubai is home to over 65,000 marine animals and we acknowledge the vital role aquariums play in enhancing biodiversity conservation through initiatives such as breeding and reinforcement programmes.

“We are committed to collaborating with local government agencies and non-profit organisations to promote marine conservation, ensuring that future generations can enjoy and benefit from a thriving, healthy ocean.”

Atlantis Dubai beach cleanup

In addition to wildlife releases, Atlantis colleagues participate in voluntary initiatives including beach cleanups and tree plantings, and dedicated 118 volunteer hours across three events in 2024.

As a destination with world-class aquariums and scientific facilities, Atlantis Dubai provides immersive experiences for guests to learn about the local environment through education programmes. For every marine animal experience participated in by a guest, Atlantis Dubai contributes US$1 to conservation and sustainability projects, raising more than a quarter of a million dollars since June 2021.

Atlantis Dubai was the first destination in the Middle East to achieve accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the internationally recognised gold standard in animal care and welfare.

For more information, visit www.atlantis.com/atlasproject

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