UAE Issues Tough Warning on Illegal Wildlife Trade With up to 15 Years in Prison, Dh2 Million Fine

The UAE has warned that those involved in the illegal trade of endangered wildlife could face prison terms of up to 15 years and fines reaching Dh2 million, as authorities reaffirmed the country’s zero-tolerance stance on wildlife trafficking.

Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said the UAE remains firmly committed to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), stressing that offenders involved in wildlife smuggling and illegal species trade “are not welcome in the UAE”.

Highlighting the country’s environmental achievements, the minister said the UAE has continued the conservation legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan through landmark programmes protecting biodiversity and endangered species.

She pointed to the UAE’s success in breeding and reintroducing the Arabian oryx, preserving one of the world’s largest dugong populations in Emirati waters, and leading international efforts to regulate the trade of falcons and other birds of prey to curb illegal trafficking.

Dr Al Dahak also highlighted the growth of the Mangrove Alliance for Climate (MAC), launched by the UAE and Indonesia, which now includes 47 member states promoting nature-based climate solutions and mangrove restoration worldwide.

As part of its national environmental strategy, the UAE has pledged to plant 100 million mangroves by 2030, alongside major projects aimed at restoring coral reefs, strengthening marine biodiversity and protecting fish stocks.

“The Emirates is leading proactive projects to restore and rehabilitate coral reefs, enhance marine biodiversity and protect fish resources,” the minister said.

She added that the UAE will continue strengthening its legislative, regulatory and technological frameworks while expanding global partnerships to safeguard biodiversity and promote sustainability for future generations.

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