The world’s leading voices in environmental conservation converged in Abu Dhabi today, as the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 officially opened its doors to more than 10,000 attendees from around the globe. With the theme “Powering Transformative Conservation”, the Congress sets the stage for bold, nature-centered solutions in a time of climate urgency and ecological upheaval.
Held once every four years by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Congress serves as a crucible of ideas, strategy, and collaboration, uniting government officials, Indigenous leaders, scientists, youth activists, business executives, and conservationists under one roof.
Hosted at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, and under the patronage of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, this year’s Congress marks a pivotal moment for global conservation efforts — blending tradition, innovation, and inclusivity to chart a nature-positive future.
Ambitious Themes, Tangible Action
The 2025 Congress is structured around five core themes that reflect the complex, interconnected challenges facing the planet:
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Scaling up resilient conservation action
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Reducing climate overshoot risks
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Delivering on equity and inclusion
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Transitioning to nature-positive economies
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Fostering disruptive innovation and leadership
These themes weave together scientific insight and community wisdom, spotlighting both high-tech solutions and grassroots resilience.
The opening day also marked a significant milestone with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IUCN and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The agreement aims to accelerate a renewable energy transition that protects biodiversity and strengthens community resilience, signaling a powerful message: climate solutions must work hand-in-hand with nature.
A Global Stage for Leadership and Legacy
Key global figures took to the stage to share their vision and commitment, including:
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President Surangel Whipps Jr. of Palau
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Princess Lalla Hasna of Morocco
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Dr. Sylvia Earle, legendary marine biologist and IUCN Patron of Nature
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Elizabeth Maruma Mrema, UN Deputy Executive Director for UNEP
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IUCN President Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak
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Dr. Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General
Their collective message? The time for transformative, inclusive action is now.
“The well-being of people and nature are inseparable,” said Al Mubarak. “This Congress is our chance to unify understanding and action – to demonstrate that science, community, and leadership can guide humanity to a future where both thrive.”
Rewilding: A New Frontier in Conservation
A major announcement came with the launch of new IUCN guidelines on rewilding — a growing field that aims to restore ecosystems by reintroducing species and natural processes. Developed over eight years with input from more than 60 organizations worldwide, these guidelines offer a science-based framework for practitioners and policymakers alike.
“This is a definitive statement of the state of the art in rewilding,” said Dr. Steve Carver, co-author of the guidelines. From forests in England to coral reefs in the Gulf, rewilding is gaining traction as a cornerstone of planetary rehabilitation.
The Arabian Oryx: A Symbol of Hope
One powerful symbol of conservation success featured prominently at the Congress: the Arabian Oryx. Once declared extinct in the wild in 1972, this iconic antelope has been brought back from the brink through sustained efforts in captive breeding and reintroduction programs — led in part by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi.
Today, more than 8,000 Arabian Oryx roam the UAE, the largest population in the world. Their comeback story epitomizes what’s possible when science, policy, and passion align.
Looking Ahead: Votes, Visions, and Voices
The Congress will culminate in the Members’ Assembly, where IUCN’s 1,400+ member organizations will vote on more than 40 motions shaping global conservation policy for the next four years. This includes the adoption of the IUCN Programme 2026–2029 and a visionary 20-year Strategic Plan.
Additional summits — including the Indigenous Peoples’ Summit, Youth Summit, Business Summit, and MENA Oceans Summit — further amplify the Congress’s inclusive spirit.
In a poignant tribute, the IUCN will also honor the life and legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall, who was scheduled to attend but passed away earlier this month.
A Message from the UAE to the World
“The UAE’s conservation journey is a testament to what is possible through science, innovation, and global cooperation,” said Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi. “From restoring mangroves to reviving extinct species, we are showing the world that ambition backed by evidence delivers real results.”
As the Congress unfolds in Abu Dhabi, one message resonates louder than ever: planetary rehabilitation is not just a goal — it’s a global imperative.
