UAE and Mongolia Join Hands for Bird Conservation

The United Arab Emirates and Mongolia have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work together on protecting two rare bird species — the Asian Houbara and the Great Bustard. The agreement was signed during the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress held in Abu Dhabi from 9 to 15 October 2025. It represents another important step in both nations’ commitment to wildlife and environmental protection.

Agreement Signed During Global Congress

The MoU was signed under the umbrella of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, during the IUCN World Conservation Congress, one of the world’s most respected environmental events. The agreement was signed by Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi, Deputy Chairman of the International Fund for Houbara Conservation (IFHC), and Batbayar Bat, Minister of Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia. The event took place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre and gathered conservation leaders from around the world.

Building on Years of Cooperation

This new agreement builds upon decades of collaboration between the UAE and Mongolia in protecting wildlife. Over the years, both nations have worked together on several projects focused on bird conservation and habitat protection. Scientific data from satellite tracking has shown that the migration path of the Mongolian Asian Houbara ends in Abu Dhabi. This finding demonstrates a strong ecological and cultural connection between the two countries, making their partnership even more meaningful.

A Shared Vision for Nature

Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi expressed great pride in signing the agreement. He described it as a continuation of the long-term partnership between the UAE and Mongolia. He emphasized that the new MoU will help combine knowledge and expertise to protect birds that are important to both countries’ natural heritage. Al Bowardi highlighted that this cooperation represents the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Founding Father, whose efforts and love for nature continue to inspire environmental protection today.

Using Science to Guide Conservation

Under this new partnership, the IFHC and the Mongolian Ministry of Environment and Tourism will carry out joint scientific research, field surveys, and projects to restore the populations of the Asian Houbara and Great Bustard. The teams will use modern tools, such as satellite tracking and field data collection, to monitor migration routes, survival rates, and breeding success. The data will help scientists understand the current condition of these species and identify the best ways to protect them.

Restoring Bird Populations for the Future

The initiative will focus on studying wild populations between 2017 and 2023 to determine population trends and the effects of climate and human activities. Based on these studies, conservationists will develop plans to protect habitats, improve breeding programs, and ensure safe migration routes for these endangered birds. The IFHC will share its expertise in areas like avian biology, habitat management, and captive breeding to help strengthen Mongolia’s conservation programs.

Continuing Sheikh Zayed’s Environmental Legacy

Al Bowardi noted that this cooperation is deeply rooted in the UAE’s humanitarian and environmental values. The UAE has long been guided by the principles set by the late Sheikh Zayed, who believed in preserving wildlife as part of protecting the planet’s balance. Through this MoU, the UAE continues to follow his legacy by supporting global biodiversity projects and helping other nations build strong conservation systems.

A Step Toward Global Conservation

This collaboration between the UAE and Mongolia highlights how international partnerships can protect species that migrate across borders. Birds like the Asian Houbara and Great Bustard play an important role in the ecosystem, but they face challenges such as habitat loss and climate change. By combining technology, science, and shared dedication, the two countries are setting an example for global environmental cooperation.

Working Together for a Sustainable Future

The signing of this MoU is not just a symbolic gesture — it is a practical step toward sustainable environmental management. Both nations are committed to long-term conservation programs that ensure the continued survival of these unique bird species. With joint research, shared resources, and strong mutual support, the UAE and Mongolia are taking real action to protect their shared natural heritage for future generations.