UAE Institutions Partner with IFAW to Promote Animal Welfare

The Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan Cultural and Educational Institutions and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance community awareness on animal welfare, wildlife conservation, and biodiversity protection across the UAE.

Patronage and Attendance

The agreement was signed under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Dr. Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, Chairperson of the UAE cultural institutions. The ceremony was attended by Azzedine T. Downes, President and CEO of IFAW, highlighting the strong commitment from both local and international bodies to advance animal welfare initiatives.

Goals of the MoU

The MoU establishes a framework for joint educational and training programmes on animal welfare and habitat protection. It also promotes the exchange of expertise, research, and information between the organisations. In addition, it supports organising events, awareness campaigns, and developing best practices for wildlife care, aiming to instill a culture of conservation across UAE communities.

Commitment to National Strategies

H.H. Sheikha Dr. Shamma expressed satisfaction with this step, noting that the UAE’s leadership has strengthened legal frameworks for wildlife protection, animal welfare, and responsible care of animals. She emphasized that civil society and community institutions play a critical role in reinforcing these national strategies through awareness and education.

Fostering Community Engagement

Sheikha Dr. Shamma highlighted the importance of community engagement in achieving conservation goals. She said this partnership marks a new beginning in enhancing efforts to safeguard wildlife health and ecological balance in the UAE, complementing the national leadership’s vision for a sustainable environment.

IFAW’s Role and Vision

Azzedine T. Downes stated that the collaboration aims to foster a culture of compassion and responsibility toward animals and nature. He emphasized that by combining global expertise with local leadership, the partnership will strengthen education, empower communities, and ensure a future where both people and wildlife can thrive.

The International Fund for Animal Welfare is a global non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting animals and their habitats. Its work includes conservation programmes, emergency responses, and policy advocacy, making it a significant partner for the UAE in promoting wildlife welfare.

Alignment with UAE Cultural Mission

The partnership aligns with the mission of the Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan Cultural and Educational Institutions to engage society in environmental issues and promote best practices in animal welfare. By combining education, training, and awareness campaigns, the collaboration seeks to create lasting impact for wildlife and communities in the UAE.