HALA AL KHAYYAT (ABU DHABI)
The Environment Agency — Abu Dhabi (EAD) announced the inauguration of its Abu Dhabi Pearl Centre in Al Mirfa city in Al Dhafra region, inviting the public to explore sustainable pearl farming. The centre is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays between 9 am and 5 pm through March 10.
Families are welcome to enjoy activities rich with Emirati heritage, participate in pearl harvesting, and engage in various one-of-a-kind events.
Visitors can tour the centre with experts to learn more about pearl farming operations, take part in discussions on sustainable oyster farming, sign up for entertainment and heritage activities including art workshops for children, and participate in pearl extraction operations.
The project, established in 2007, aims to cultivate oysters and sustainably produce high-quality pearls from the waters of Abu Dhabi. Through this initiative, the agency also aims to provide an educational platform about sustainable oyster farming.
Since its inception, the project has contributed to heritage revitalisation and the preservation of local oysters and pearls through participation in local and international events.
Collaborative projects with educational institutions have also been launched, incorporating artistic elements to create jewellery designs using cultivated pearls. The initiative produces approximately 80,000 to 100,000 cultured oysters annually, presenting unique opportunities for growth as a pioneering project that connects culture with sustainable tourism and education in Abu Dhabi and leverages the UAE’s creative talents.
The EAD consistently strives to preserve national heritage while simultaneously protecting the environment through the development of sustainable aquatic cultivation techniques.
The Abu Dhabi Pearl project focuses on enhancing environmental tourism in the emirate by highlighting the traditions and heritage of the UAE, conducting scientific and practical experiments to enhance knowledge in the field of oyster cultivation, increasing production volume, and improving pearl quality.
In addition, the project raises awareness among the younger generation about sustainable oyster farming through school and university visits, as well as participation in local and international events.