Interim Coastal Development Guidelines Version 1.0 مجلس أبوظبي للتخطيط العمراني 62221 ب.ص اإلمارات العربية المتحدة،أبوظبي
Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council P.O.Box 62221 Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Tel: +971 2 409 6000 Fax: +971 2 443 2903 www.upc.gov.ae
Interim Coastal Development Guidelines
اﻟﻄﺒﻴﻌﺔواﻟﺘﺮاث اﻟﺜﻘﺎﻓﻲ
Natural & Cultural Heritage
His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi
His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council
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Coastal Development Guidelines UPC Mandate
UPC Mandate The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC) was created by Emiri Decree number 23 of the year 2007 and is the agency responsible for the future of Abu Dhabi’s urban environments, and the expert authority behind the visionary Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 Urban Structure Framework Plan published September 2007. Chaired by His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the UPC defines the shape of the Emirate, ensuring factors such as sustainability, infrastructure capacity, community planning and quality of life by overseeing development across the city and the Emirate as a whole. The UPC ensures best practice in planning for both new and existing urban areas. The primary purpose of the Urban Planning Council is to deliver upon the vision of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, Ruler of Abu Dhabi for the continued fulfillment of the grand design envisaged by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the ongoing evolution of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. By drawing on local Emirati urban planning expertise, throughout the co-operation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC), and around the world, the UPC strives to be a global authority on the future of urban planning and design. Building on the success of Plan Abu Dhabi 2030, the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council is pleased to issue the Interim Coastal Development Guidelines for Abu Dhabi which are contained within this document.
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Table Of Contents Coastal Development Guidelines
1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5
UPC Mandate Introduction Vision and Objective Applicable Area Land Use Zones Relation to Other UPC Planning Policy Plan Abu Dhabi 2030
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2.0
The Coastal Lagoons
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3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4
Land Use Zones Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots Coastal Conservation Zones Coastal Stewardship Zones
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Appendix 1 Application Requirements Appendix 2 Environmental Profiling of Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 Coastal Development Guideline Area Appendix 3 Environmental Profiling of Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 Coastal Development Guideline Area - Supporting information Acknowledgements For More Information
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33 35 39 57 69 70
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1.0 Introduction
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Natural & Cultural Heritage
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Coastal Development Guidelines Introduction
1.0 Introduction The City of Abu Dhabi is fortuitously situated on an island set amidst the coastal lagoons and islands sheltered by the Great Pearl Bank Barrier. This tranquil natural setting embodies much of greater Abu Dhabi’s natural and cultural heritage, and provides valuable opportunities for recreation, relaxation and enjoyment of the mangroves, beaches and shallow lagoons all situated directly adjacent to the City. Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 intends that only limited development occurs within these lagoons, and indicates that a high percentage of these areas be maintained as undeveloped, open space. These Interim Coastal Development Guidelines represent the first step in advancing the Environmental Framework Policies outlined in Plan Abu Dhabi 2030.
1.1 Vision And Objectives The specific objectives of the Interim Coastal Development Guidelines are to: • Preserve natural & cultural heritage for future generations • Provide opportunity for recreation, relaxation & enjoyment of Abu Dhabi’s unique coastal lagoon setting • Maintain the ecological ‘services’ provided by the lagoons, including shoreline stability, carbon absorption and water purification • Help shape Abu Dhabi as a City of compact, mixed use communities with a unique sense of place (by preventing sprawl along the coast) • Provide easy access & connectivity from the City and between the lagoons
1.2 Applicable Area The guidelines apply to the largely undeveloped coastal lagoons that are situated adjacent to Abu Dhabi Island, extending from the Al Dab’biyah Peninsula northeast to the Hudayriat Islands, and from Abu Dhabi Island northeast to Ra’s Hanyoura, and also including the Ra’s Ghanada Lagoon northeast of Taweelah. Please see the map on page 23 of this document.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Introduction
1.3 Land Use Zones The guidelines build on the echelons of the ‘Green Gradient’ introduced in Plan Abu Dhabi 2030. The basic concepts are retained whilst new terminology is introduced. Four land use zones are delineated and are described as: (1) Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks no development is intended in these areas and only passive recreation, education and research activity which is in accordance with the EAD management plan approach and objectives for the areas will be permitted.
Permitted Activity: Access to and usage of Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks will only be allowed if it accords with the aims and objectives of the management plan developed for each area.
(2) Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots - Where only visitor facilities with minimal environmental impact are intended. Permitted Activity: Day use only consisting of visitor and related conveniences with no overnight accommodation allowed except for designated and supervised boat anchorages, camping and picnic facilities. Associated facilities and services will be of proportionate scale and sensitive to the ecological constraints of the parks. (3) Coastal Conservation Zones - Where only small scale, selfsufficient residential and visitor facilities are intended. Permitted activity: single family low density development and tourist accommodation in the form of lodges and guest houses are permitted along with self sufficient, ‘off-grid’ development and well managed recreation activities and related infrastructure. No large hotels, hotel-resorts or industrial development are permitted within coastal conservation zones.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Introduction
(4) Coastal Stewardship Zones - which may accommodate small coastal towns designed to achieve a high degree of selfsufficiency and sustainability. Permitted activity: Self-sufficient coastal towns, with compact, mixed use town centres and residential areas are permitted. Harbour-focused town centres should take full advantage of the waterfront location. The full range of land use is permitted in order to provide adequate employment opportunities for residents, as well as the full range of community amenities and services. No heavy industry is permitted within Coastal Stewardship Zones.
1.4 Relation to Other UPC Planning Policy Given that only small scale development is anticipated, the UPC does not intend to produce master plans or more detailed planning guidance for these areas. These Interim Coastal Development Guidelines are being developed in greater detail, and the (final) Coastal Development Guidelines will be published in the near future. These guidelines impose requirements beyond the standard UPC conceptual application submission requirements. For more information on the UPC’s development review process please refer to the “For More Information” section at the end of this document.
1.5 Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 The UPC is the expert authority behind the visionary Plan Abu Dhabi 2030: Urban Structure Framework Plan, published in September 2007. Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 is designed to assist Abu Dhabi plan for future development needs, establish a planning culture and introduce strong guiding principles for new development. Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 can be downloaded at the UPC website at http://www.upc.gov.ae or obtained directly from the UPC.
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2.0 Coastal Lagoons
اﻟﻄﺒﻴﻌﺔواﻟﺘﺮاث اﻟﺜﻘﺎﻓﻲ
Natural & Cultural Heritage
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Coastal Development Guidelines Introduction
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Coastal Development Guidelines Coastal Lagoons
2.0 The Coastal Lagoons The guidelines contained in this document apply to the coastal Lagoons defined below:
Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots Coastal conservation zones Coastal stewardship zones
The Bul Syayeef Lagoon extends from the Ad Dab’biyah peninsula northeast to Abu Dhabi Island, and encompasses the Al Aryam, Al Bahrani, Al Fitesi and Hudayriat Islands. It includes dense seagrass beds, as well as intertidal mudflats and mangroves.
The Inner Islands Lagoon is located to the northeast of Abu Dhabi Island and is bounded by Abu Dhabi Island, along with Al Saadiyat, Yas Island and Aldar’s Al Raha Beach development. The Lagoon includes some of the most extensive dense mangrove in the Emirate.
The Ras Gharab Lagoon extends from Al Saadiyat and Ras Island northeast to Ras Hanyoura. The Lagoon includes Al Gharab and Bel Ghelam islands. The Lagoon includes extensive intertidal mudlfats that provide important habitat for migrating and naturalised shorebirds.
The Ra’s Ghanada Lagoon lies between the proposed Khalifa Port and Ghantoot City developments. The largest and most diverse coral reef in the Emirate lies off shore and supports species of coral not found elsewhere in the Arabian Gulf.
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3.0 Land Use Zones Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots Coastal Conservation Zones Coastal Stewardship Zones
اﻟﻄﺒﻴﻌﺔواﻟﺘﺮاث اﻟﺜﻘﺎﻓﻲ
Natural & Cultural Heritage
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Coastal Development Guidelines Land Use Zones
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Coastal Development Guidelines Land Use Zones
3.0 Land Use Zones The UPC is responsible for the physical shape of the Emirate, as outlined above, and works to achieve this by regulating land use, density and by providing guidance on the scale and form of development, transportation and related issues. The land use zones described below represent a further refinement of the Environmental Land Use Framework in Plan Abu Dhabi 2030. Land use and development policies are stated, followed by a concise rationale.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Land Use Zones
3.1 Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks. Policy PN1 No physical development is intended within the Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks1. Policy PN2 Activities permitted within the Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks should accord with the EAD management plan approach and objectives for the areas. For the purpose of these Guidelines, the EAD has identified areas which warrant designation as Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks1. The Abu Dhabi Lagoons Map shows three areas designated as Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks, highlighted in dark green. These areas generally include dense and/or extensive mangroves, seagrass beds, coral reefs and/or important habitat for waterfowl. This special land use designation is justified by their ecological, aesthetic and scientific importance, as well as for their ecotourism potential. These areas provide an excellent opportunity to promote environmental education and awareness for all residents of the Emirate as well as visitors. The objective of the designation of these areas within this policy document is to provide a valuable contribution to the protection and preservation of these precious natural resources for future generations. The UPC aims to work closely with the EAD and other stakeholders to safeguard the areas from development, uses or activities that oppose the EAD management plan approach and objectives for the areas.
1 Definition of physical development includes but not limited to any structure, excavation, clearing, infilling or dredging above below or on the land or water. 2 The term ‘Protected/ Proposed Protected Areas, National Parks and Ecological Hotspots’ is used only as a land use definition.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Land Use Zones
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Coastal Development Guidelines Land Use Zones
3.2 Coastal Parks And Ecological Hotspots. Policy CE1 No dredging or reclamation or other physical alteration of the environment is permitted within the areas designated as ‘Coastal Park’. No development or alternative use is permitted with the exception of small scale visitor facilities and related services. Policy CE2 No overnight accommodation is permitted with the exception of designated and supervised boat anchorage, camping and picnic facilities. Policy CE3 Access is limited to ferries, small and non-motorized boats. Anchorage, boating activities and passage of larger sea vessels will only be permitted in designated areas. The Abu Dhabi Lagoons Map shows extensive areas that are designated as Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots in light green. These areas surround the areas designated as Protected / Proposed Protected Areas and National Parks. They are generally comprised of shallow intertidal areas and deeper lagoons, with little upland. They also include important natural habitat of inherent ecologic, recreational, and educational importance. The purpose of the Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots designation is to retain the recreational and environmental values of these extensive areas for the City’s residents, visitors and for future generations. Watersports and especially non-motorized boating are encouraged, and areas suitable for camping and picnic facilities will be designated in appropriate locations to serve visitors and tourists. No other forms of accommodation are permitted. Areas suitable for visitor centres and associated facilities will also be designated. Any docks, moorage or related infrastructure will be also be carefully designated and designed to avoid impacts to natural habitat.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Land Use Zones
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Coastal Development Guidelines Land Use Zones
3.3 Coastal Conservation Zones Policy CZ 1 The development of land within a Coastal Conservation Zone is limited to single family low density housing and eco-lodges, environmental education centers and recreational facilities. Policy CZ2 Development will only be permitted if located adjacent to the shoreline and must not exceed a height of G+2. Residential units must be clustered within small villages and be of a scale proportionate with the area of the island. All development must be self sufficient, ‘off-grid’ and have a small carbon footprint. Policy CZ3 Access is limited to ferries, small and non-motorized boats. Anchorage, boating activities and passage of larger sea vessels will only be permitted in designated areas. The Coastal Conservation Zones are shown in yellow on the Abu Dhabi Lagoons Map. These areas are comprised of islands and have been subject to relatively minor development in the past which is mostly in the form of private dwellings with little associated infrastructure. The Coastal Conservation Zones are considered to be an appropriate location for well sited and well designed low density residential development as well as small “eco-lodges”. The key principle of development within the Coastal Conservation Zones is to provide the necessary infrastructure and facilities in order to support the recreational and education activities in the Coastal Parks and Ecological Hotspots. Recreational facilities including a visitors centre is acceptable and the key objective of development should be to promote understanding and awareness of environmental issues and to provide low key sustainable eco-lodge accommodation for visitors and low density single family dwellings for residents. Development should not exceed G+2 in order to maintain the natural quality and tranquil character of the islands. All development should take the form of small villages located adjacent to the shoreline and all should be oriented towards the water. All development must be off grid and make best use of renewable energy technology to minimize its carbon footprint. Infrastructure will be limited and no private vehicular access or bridge to the islands is envisaged. This will encourage use of alternative, more sustainable forms of transport such as ferries, and small motorized boats. On the islands themselves the road networks will be minimal and serve only to provide residential access.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Land Use Zones
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Coastal Development Guidelines Land Use Zones
3.4 Coastal Stewardship Zones Policy SZ1 Mixed use development is permitted with the exclusion of heavy industry. The Coastal Stewardship Zone should include residential, commercial and small scale light industrial development in order to promote a self sufficient local economy. Policy SZ2 The scale and form of development within the Coastal Stewardship Zones should not occupy a total area in excess of 200 ha. The development should include a mixed-use town centre not exceeding 33% of the overall area of the site with a maximum building height of G+4. The remainder of the site should consist of medium to low density residential development averaging 100 units/ha with a building height not exceeding G+2. Policy SZ3 The orientation and location of development within the Coastal Stewardship Zones should be designed so that each town has one focal centre and be oriented to the water with all amenities provided.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Land Use Zones
Policy SZ4 Each centre must be served by a coastal harbor/ferry dock. The shorefront will be fully accessible and serve as public open space. Policy SZ5 Development will only be permitted if it is served by sustainable forms of public transport which should link the islands to the mainland. Policy SZ6 Development will only be permitted if the infrastructure proposed makes provision for in-town transit, walking, cycling and other non-motorized forms of transport. Policy SZ7 Development will only be permitted where powered by a minimum of 50% on site renewable energy production (e.g. solar, wind, & biomass) and achieve a small carbon footprint. Policy SZ8 Development will only be permitted where provision for natural systems based wastewater treatment is made within the town site. Solid waste collection, separation and treatment should be undertaken within the town site. Policy SZ9 Development will only be permitted where its own (desalinated) water supply is generated by utilizing renewable energy sources (solar energy). The Coastal Stewardship Zone can be identified on the Abu Dhabi Lagoons Map as the brown areas. Most types of land use are acceptable here with the exception of heavy or polluting industries. The objective of these policy guidelines is to enable the development of small coastal towns which are totally self sufficient in terms of their amenities and facilities but also distinctly separate from each other with each having its own unique character and sense of place and strong cultural links to the sea. The towns should be orientated towards the sea and not exceed a height of G+4 in the mixed use town centre and G+2 in residential areas. The area of the towns should not exceed 200 ha and the density of the residential units should average 100 units per ha. The shorefront of each town should be publicly accessible or comprised of public open space. All amenities should be provided within each town in order to support a permanent and stable population. The economic activity in the town should be adequate to support the vitality and viability of the town and enable them to have self sufficient economies without competing with each other or the City of Abu Dhabi.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Land Use Zones
The development should be served by sustainable forms of transport. The overall objective is for the community to achieve 50% of all journeys by utilizing public transport, electric vehicles, or by non-motorized means (e.g. cycling, walking). Primary access to the towns will therefore be limited in order to encourage the use of alternative transport nodes such as ferries or light rail, for example. Each town should have its own harbor/ferry dock. Every town should be served by its own waste treatment facilities to deal with municipal solid waste and sewage effluent and be designed to achieve a low carbon status with a minimum of 50% on site renewable energy production. Each town should have its own desalination plant which should ideally be powered using solar energy.
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Appendix 1 Application Requirements
اﻟﻄﺒﻴﻌﺔواﻟﺘﺮاث اﻟﺜﻘﺎﻓﻲ
Natural & Cultural Heritage
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 1
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 1
Application Requirements Any application subject to review by the Urban Planning Council and within the Interim Coastal Development Guidelines boundary will be subject to application requirements above and beyond what is normally required by the UPC. The principal additional requirement is an ‘Environmental Context Statement’. While this is required for every application, further information may be requested by the Development Review Team at any stage of the application process. The information within the Environmental Context Statement should demonstrate that the guidance and policies within this document have been considered and should be reflected within the details of the proposed development. The Environmental Context Statement should demonstrate: • A comprehensive understanding of the ecological context within which the development is proposed; • That all environmental objectives have been taken into account in the conceptual design; and • A reasoned justification for the standard of environmental design and implementation that is incorporated in the development proposal. Proponents should refer to the most relevant/recent guidance provided as part of UPC’s Estidama Initiative, and as such are encouraged to apply for a Pearls Rating (once the Estidama Pearls Certification Process is fully established). Citing Estidama principles and guidance, and the certification process itself, will help proponents demonstrate compliance within these Interim Coastal Development Guidelines.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 1
Proponents are also required to include a minimum of three A3-sized diagrams and include the following information: (1) Show the proposed development site in its ecological context, where the site occupies no more than 25% of the drawing. This plan may show the extent of major habitat types (mangroves, intertidal mudflats or seagrass, for example) that may occur, as well as providing photographs and other relevant drawings, notes and information. (2) Show the habitat types that occur within the development site. The site itself should fully occupy the drawing. This plan should also show the extent of habitat types that occur along with representative photographs. (3) One or more drawings indicating what proportion of original habitat will remain post-development. This plan should show any alteration of the pre-development topography that is proposed. In addition, proponents are encouraged to provide one or more additional drawings that show important areas in more detail. The scale should be appropriate and depends on the importance of the site. Examples follow that give an indication of the layout and content that is expected.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 1
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Appendix 2 Environmental Profiling of the Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 Coastal Development Guidelines Area
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Natural & Cultural Heritage
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
Introduction The area that Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 covers has been subject to major coastal development projects as the Abu Dhabi city expands and projects to boost and diversity the economy are supported. Some of the major threats to maintaining biodiversity of the area include coastal development, urbanization and over-exploitation of natural resources. As the city grows it becomes necessary to accord specific areas which contain sensitive and essential habitats some form of protection in order to preserve biodiversity and maintain natural heritage. Four areas were identified within the waters of eastern Abu Dhabi including Bul Syayeef, Ras Gharab, Ras Ghanada and the Inner Islands for specific conservation and protection consideration. The following report gives background information on the major habitats and species that occur within these four areas.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
Inner Island
1. Key habitats Mangroves form the most prominent and important habitat in this area with seagrass beds interspersed in the sheltered lagoons. Similar to most mangrove habitats in Abu Dhabi, only one species of mangrove occurs in this area (Avicennia marina). The mangroves play an important role in protecting coastal areas from storms and controlling soil erosion. They also provide important nursery grounds for several commercially important fish species. The seagrass meadows of this area have not been well studied. Associated with the mangrove but on relatively higher ground beyond the reach of wave action and all but the very highest tides are salt marsh species such as Salicornia sp., Suaeda sp., Halocnemum strobilceum, Arthrocnemum macrostachyum, Cistanche tubulosa and Zygophyllum qatarense. The inter-tidal mudflats, important for many bird species particularly for migrating shorebirds are also widespread in this area.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
2. Species The mangrove habitat and seagrass beds support several species including sponges, worms, crustaceans, mollusks and algae. They also act as important nursery grounds for several commercially important fish species. Some of the fish species that frequent waters near mangrove habitats including barracudas, flatheads, gobies, jacks, trevalies, silver biddies, grunts, sweetlips, rabbitfish, mullets and terapons. Mangrove and tidal mudflats support a large number of bird species, mostly waders. Herons e.g. Western reef heron (Egretta gularis), Grey heron (Ardea cinerea) and egrets are commonly seen. Waders like Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata), Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus), Redshank (Tringa tetanus), and Greenshank (Tringa nebularia) are usually seen feeding on the mudflats (Figure1). Apart from these species Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) are seen in numbers ranging into several hundred mostly during winters in the area. Crab plovers (Dromas ardeola) use the inter-tidal area and the mangrove while on their local east-west migration in the country. Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), Greater spotted eagle (Aquila clanga) and Marsh harrier (Circus aeruginosus) are commonly seen particularly during winters. Apart from the species and groups mentioned many terns, gulls, pipits, wagtails are encountered in the area. The general bird list of the area is provided in Appendix E.
3. Natural processes In order to maintain healthy mangroves, it is essential to allow for natural tidal fluctuations. Mangroves are generally found in areas that get under water during high tide and where the waves are not very strong. This area is shallow and sheltered from wave action by landforms that act as natural breakwaters. Some threats to natural processes include interruption of tidal and circulation patterns as a result of development projects. Additionally, mangrove areas usually occur in low energy environments, and increase in boat traffic can increase wave action, thus potentially disturbing the natural environment. Some of the mangrove plantations in this area have been badly affected due to surrounding landfill activities, and the burial of roots not allowing for respiration. In other areas within this basin, the mangrove plantations have remained healthy but are under threat as circulation patterns have been interrupted as a result of the channel being blocked around development projects.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
4. Other values (including heritage and socioeconomic aspects) Recent development of real estate in the area is debatable as far as costs and benefits viz-a-viz nature conservation. The fish statistics from Al Sadiyat landing site corresponds with fisheries taking place in the Inner Island basin. The inner islands are traditionally fished using a broad range of fishing methods during different seasons, thereby limiting the prospect of overfishing single species. To a small extent, Buhoor fishermen are found in these areas and the species composition of landings are shown in Appendix C. The whole-sale value of fish landings in 2008 were estimated at 1 million AED (Appendix D). The survival of mangroves is critical in contributing to fish stocks and maintaining the fishing sector which has cultural significance. On a recreational side, they can be important bird-watching areas and sites for leisure tours including kayaking.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
Figure 1. Bird species in the Inner Island and Bul Syaeef basins
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
Bul Syayeef
1. Key habitats Bul Syayeef area is one of the most important in terms of having the best inter-tidal habitats in the vicinity of Abu Dhabi city. The area south of Aryam, close to the western boundary of this marine protected area has very good salt marshes and cyanobacterial habitats. The distributions of mangrove habitats are patchy and not as extensive as other areas. Seagrass meadows are found more extensively particularly in the eastern portion of the basin with Halodule uninervis being the dominant species. Coral reefs of this site have not been well studied except for a few ground truth points shown in the map. In this area Al Reem wa El Deman Island is in relatively good condition but has some developments taking place. Bu Sheef is a small island but heavily disturbed with many introduced plant species. Hideriyyat Island is partly made up of dredged material but at present is relatively undisturbed.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
2. Species Three species (Halodule uninervis, Halophila ovalis and Halophila stipulacea) are recorded in Abu Dhabi waters, but Halodule uninervis is generally the more dominant species. The seagrass meadows provide important foraging habitat for sea turtles and potentially dugongs. The seagrass beds provide important grounds for invertebrates as wells as nursery grounds for fish. More than 50 bird species are commonly seen in and around the area at any given time. The area is one of the most important habitats in the Emirate for wintering waterbirds, due to the presence of extensive intertidal mudflats, providing feeding opportunities to numerous shorebirds. The area is particularly important for the wintering Greater flamingos which are present in significantly large numbers in the area. At any given time from 1000-1500 flamingos are present in the area and EAD’s satellite tracking study has shown that it’s a key feeding and resting habitat for the Greater flamingos and was instrumental in declaring the area as Marine Protected Area (Figure 2). Nationally and regionally important species such as Crab plovers (Dromas ardeola), Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata), Swift Tern, Lesser Crested Tern (Sterna bengalensis) Western Reef Heron (Egretta gularis, Blackwinged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus), Greater spotted Eagle (Aquila clanga) can be seen in and around the area (Appendix E). The two main reptile species recorded in this area was the Shortnosed Lizard (Mesalina brevirostri) and Baluch Rock gecko (Bunopus tuberculatus). Generally there was a high diversity of terrestrial invertebrate species comprising of about 10 insect orders (e.g. Isoptera (termites), Hymenoptera (wasps, ants and bees), Coleoptera (beetles) and Diptera (flies), Heteroptera (true bugs), Neuroptera (ant lions), Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), Thysanoptera (thrips)). Arachnids (spiders) were also recorded. Common species recorded were Green lacewing (Chrysoperla carnea), Grasshopper (Pygromorpha conica), Eleven Spotted Lady Bird Beetle (Coccinella unidecimpunctata).
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
3. Natural processes Seagrass meadows are important primary producers and contribute to the overall productivity of nearshore marine environments, similar to mangroves and coral reefs. Decomposing seagrass provides food to detritus organisms such us heterotrophic flagellates, bacteria and other microorganisms. Seagrass meadows also support several species of epiphytic algae, invertebrates and other benthic flora and fauna. They play a vital role in maintaining sea turtle populations. Although dugongs have not been sighted in this area, the seagrass meadows could be potential feeding grounds. Additionally, seagrass beds play a role in maintaining water clarity through filtration of contaminants and trapping of sediments. The maintenance of good water quality is essential for the health and productivity of seagrass meadows that require adequate light penetration to undergo photosynthesis.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
The natural tidal cycle is essential in bringing in nutrients and maintaining the productivity of the tidal mudflats and hence providing feeding opportunities to a variety of shorebirds and contributing to the development of salt marshes and cyanobacterial mats.
4. Other values (including heritage and socioeconomic aspects) Until the announcement of Bul Syayeef protected area in 2007, buhoor fishermen exploited this area utilizing a broad range of fishing methods during different seasons in a similar fashion as described for the Inner Island Basin. Pre 2007 landings of Al Bateen shows the highest diversity in composition of fish species (Appendix C), originating from these fisheries which took place in Bul Syayeef area with a projected economic value of 3.2 million AED (Appendix D). Since 2007, no commercial fisheries takes place any longer inside Bul Syayeef protected area and all its buhoor fishermen have been compensated for the loss of their longstanding fishing rights. The area is particularly sensitive to the planned economic development on the south side of the channel. The proposed Abu Dhabi Industrial City (ICAD IV or III) and associated maritime time traffic could have potential implications to the important coastal habitats.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
Ras Gharab
1. Key habitats The fringing coral reefs of Sadiyat may be considered the second best reef in Abu Dhabi after Ras Ghanada. This is an important area for coral reefs as coral cover and diversity in this area are found to be good and Acropora sp. are found to be recovering. The dominant coral species found here remains Porites sp. During surveys in 2007 yellow-band disease on some Porites colonies were noticed. In addition to coral reefs, several other key habitats can be found in Ras Gharab including; seagrass meadows, patches of mangroves and intertidal mudflats. Inter-tidal mudflats and very shallow sandy areas are found in this area. At low tide vast areas of mudflats get exposed. Land forms and islands in this area have typical desert flora, some of the privately owned areas have been brought under plantation of various forms. Inaccessibility of most of the areas has resulted in less disturbance and conservation of natural flora.
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Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
Ras Garab is relatively disturbed with human habitation e.g. houses and gardens. The presence of flowering plants was reflected by the large number of butterflies recorded. Also a sabkha species of gecko the Gulf Sand Gecko (Stenodactylus khoberensis) was recorded next to a sabkha on the island.
2. Species The species composition of fisheries that take place in Ras Gharab are lower than in Inner Island or Bul Syayeef before 2007, but this could be due to the limited fishing methods used in this area and a focus on the more commercially important species typically: Shaari, Jesh, Hamour, Faskar and Kanaad (Appendix B and C). The seagrass meadows provide foraging grounds for sea turtles, and some of the beaches of Sadiyat Island have been recorded as nesting grounds for hawksbill turtles. Very high numbers of waders feeding on various organisms in the mudflats are recorded at appropriate times of the year in this area due to the availability of abundant food. In winters waders such as Dunlin (Calidris alpina), Curlew sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea), little stint (Calidris minuta), Lesser sand plover (Charadrius mongolus), Kentish plover (Charadrius alexandrinus) are recorded in thousands. This area is significant and a prime feeding area for Greater Flamingo, Osprey, Greater spotted eagle, Crab plover and Socotra cormorant (Phalacrocorax nigrogularis). High numbers of terns and gulls are seen in this area (Appendix E). The two main reptile species recorded in this area was the Short-nosed Lizard (Mesalina brevirostri), Baluch Rock gecko (Bunopus tuberculatus) and Gulf Sand Gecko (Stenodactylus khoberensis). The invertebrate density is medium compared to Bul Syayeef with about 6 insect orders. (e.g. Hymenoptera (wasps, ants and bees), Diptera (flies), Heteroptera (true bugs), Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths), Odonata (dragonflies).
51
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
3. Natural processes Coral reefs are important to the overall productivity of the coastal environment. They provide habitat and shelter for a variety of fish and invertebrate species as well as sea turtles. Additionally, corals play an essential role in the control of carbon dioxide levels in the ocean environment through calcification, thus creating structures that play a role in the protection of coastal areas from storm surges. Tidal movements of sea water are significant natural processes. The area is sheltered by land forms from high waves originating in high seas. Clarity and quality of water are also important in maintenance of seagrass and coral reef communities, as they depend on the availability of nutrients and light penetration for photosynthesis. Threats to natural processes in this area may arise due to the close proximity of a dredge burrow area. High turbidity was recorded during coral reef monitoring. Increase in turbidity in the area is a threat to coral reefs and could lead to a decrease in light penetration and thus productivity, or could even end up directly burying coral polyps causing death.
4. Other values (including heritage and socioeconomic aspects) Some of the islands in Ras Gharab have human settlements used for weekend recreation by the local population living in Abu Dhabi. These are not tourism related activities, but people trying to maintain their maritime heritage. The fisheries landings of Al Sadar correspond with fisheries taking place in Ras Gharab. This landing site has highest economic value with a wholesale value estimated at 4.6 million AED (Appendix D). In Ras Gharab there are no buhoor fishermen, and here fishermen are only entitled to Hadaq fishing (Appendix B). As Sadiyat Island develops into a global cultural and tourist destination, tourists of the area may take advantage of the coral reef sites for diving activities and the seagrass beds for snorkeling opportunities.
52
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
Ras Ghanada
1. Key habitats The coral reefs of Ras Ghanada were identified as the best and healthiest reefs in Abu Dhabi. Fringing reefs occur here and the highest diversity of coral species is found. Coral cover in this reef is high and covers more than 50% of the seabed area. Dense branching corals such as Acropora sp. are found along with boulder and brain corals including Porites sp and Platygyra sp. Coral recruitment and regeneration in this area are found to be good. Some of the coral species found here are not found on reefs elsewhere in Abu Dhabi such as Pavona cactus. A checklist of coral species found in this area is provided in Appendix H. No diseases have been observed in this area and the health of the reef remains good.
53
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
Moving landwards, we find a healthy patch of seagrass meadows followed by good distribution of mangrove habitats. The seagrasses of this area are not well studied. This site is the only one in which 2 species of mangroves are found to occur. In addition to the usual Avicennia marina, Rhizophoro mucronata a species that was presumed to occur in UAE historically has been experimentally planted successfully. The Rhizophora mucronata plants have grown to the flowering stage and this shows that Ras Ghanada is a good site for plantation of both native and other similar species of mangroves. The inland area, between Ras Ghanada and Taweelah has one of few remaining areas of coastal white sand sheet which provides important habitat to breeding Chesnut-bellied Sand grouse and also for Lesser Short-toed Lark, both threatened in the UAE.
2. Species Several sea turtles have been found taking advantage of the abundant seagrass and coral reef habitats. Additionally, the beaches of Ras Ghanada have been recorded as turtle nesting beaches for the hawksbill turtle. No specific surveys have been carried around Ras Ghanada for birds, however many species of waterbirds, found in other coastal habitats containing mangroves, salt marshes and inter-tidal mudflats are expected to occur here too. This area has the Desert Gecko (Teratoscincus scincus) which is a rare species restricted to a very narrow range in the UAE along the coastal dunes and plains. This species has been impacted by development activities and it would be important to preserve some habitat in this area from further development.
54
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 2
3. Natural processes The maintenance of healthy coral reefs and mangrove areas are important due to contributions to overall biological productivity and also due to the natural defences that they provide to coastal areas. Some of the factors that influence coral community composition include; light availability, wave action, sedimentation, salinity, tidal ranges, availability of food, temperature and bathymetry. Increase in sedimentation from either shamal winds or dredging activities may cause sediments to remain suspended for some time and the turbidity reduces light penetration. Settlement of sediments on corals after prolonged disturbance may kill corals by burying them or chocking polyps. Changes in temperature can limit coral growth and reef development. With Khalifa Port and Industrial zone in close proximity to this site, some of the potential threats include the increase in sedimentation during the construction of the project. Additionally, increase in the number of ships may make the reefs more susceptible to anchorage and ship groundings, or release of ballast water causing a decline in water quality. Increase in nutrients, pollutants or discharged cooling waters from nearby industrial activities are also cause for concern.
4. Other values (including heritage and socioeconomic aspects) This area has been generally restricted to fishing activities, due to its close proximity to the Taweela power plant and several palaces. There are no fisheries statistics that have been recorded for this area. The Port and Industrial zone may cause a decline in inclination to use this area as a tourist destination; however, if the reefs remain healthy they could provide one of the best sites for diving in the UAE.
55
56
Appendix 3 Environmental profiling of the Coastal Development Guidelines area - supporting data
اﻟﻄﺒﻴﻌﺔواﻟﺘﺮاث اﻟﺜﻘﺎﻓﻲ
Natural & Cultural Heritage
57
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 3
58
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 3
Supporting Data
Location of landing sites in Eastern Abu Dhabi Emirate
Appendix B – Number of fishing trips by fishing method in 2008 (Bul Syayeef/Al Bateen pre 2007 statistics)
Appendix C- Species compostion of landings in 2008 (Bul Syayeef/Al Bateen pre 2007 statistics)
59
Appendix D – the wholesale value of fish landings realized in 2008 (in million AED) (Bul Syayeef/Al Bateen pre 2007 statistics)
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 3
APPENDIX E – List of some bird species recorded in the respective areas
SN.
Species
Scientific name
1
Great Cormorant
Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis
2
Socotra Cormorant
Phalacrocorax nigrogularis
Arabic name
Status in UAE
غراب البحر
Bu Al Sayeef
PM/WM
+
لبحر السوقطري
RB
+
بلشون أخضر الظهر (مخطط
RB
Inner Island
Ras Gharab
+
+
+
+
3
Striated Heron
Butorides striatus
4
Cattle Egret
Bubulcus ibis
أبوقردان (بلشون البقر
PM/WM
+
+
5
Western Reef Heron
Egretta gularis schistacea
بلشون الصخر (البحر
RB
+
+
6
Intermediate Egret
Egretta intermedia
بلشون متوسط بلشون متوسط
7
Great Egret
Egretta alba
8
Grey Heron
Ardea cinerea cinerea
9
Eurasian Spoonbill
Platalea leucorodia
10
Greater Flamingo
Phoenicopterus ruber
11
Egyptian Goose
Alopochen aegyptiacus
12
Common Shelduck
Tadorna tadorna
V SM/WM
+
PM/SM/WM
+
أبو ملعقة
PM/SM/WM
إوزة مصرية الشهرمان
SM/WM
+
RB PM/WM
+ +
+
+
+
+
+
13
Common Teal
Anas crecca crecca
حذف شتوي
PM/WM
Mallard
Anas platyrhynchos
اخلضاري
RB/WM
+
15
Western Marsh Harrier
Circus aeruginosus aeruginosus
مرزة البطائح
PM/WM
+
16
Lesser Spotted Eagle
Aquila pomarina
V
+
17
Greater Spotted Eagle
Aquila clanga
PM/WM
+
+
18
Osprey
Pandion haliaetus haliaetus
19
Oystercatcher
20
Black-winged Stilt
21
Crab Plover
Dromas ardeola
22
Kentish Plover
Charadrius alexandrinus alexandrinus
23
Lesser Sand Plover
Charadrius mongolus
24
Greater Sand Plover
Charadrius leschenaultii
25
Pacific Golden Plover
Pluvialis fulva
26
Grey Plover
Pluvialis squatarola
27
Sanderling
Calidris alba
28
Little Stint
Calidris minuta
29
Temminck's Stint
Calidris temminckii
30
Curlew Sandpiper
Calidris ferruginea
31
Dunlin
Calidris alpina
32
Black-tailed Godwit
Limosa limosa limosa
33
Bar-tailed Godwit
Limosa lapponica lapponica
34
Whimbrel
Numenius phaeopus
35
Eurasian Curlew
Numenius arquata
عقاب أسفع (أرقط) كبير
VU (IUCN)
RI
+ +
14
عقاب أسفع (أرقط) صغير
Importance
+
بلشون رمادي
النحام (البشروش) الكبير
+
Ras Ghanada
RI
+
عقاب نساري (عقاب السمك
RB/PM/WM
+
+
+
Haematopus ostralegus
آكل احملار
PM/SM/WM
+
+
+
Himantopus himantopus
أبو املغازل
RB/PM
+
+
+
Threatened in UAE
احلنكور
MB/PM/WM
+
+
+
Small World Range
قطقاط (زقزاق) اسكندري
MB/PM/WM
+
+
+
قطقاط (زقزاق) الرمل الصغير
PM/SM/WM
+
+
+
قطقاط (زقزاق) الرمل الكبير
PM/WM
+
+
+
قطقاط ذهبي باسيفيكي
PM/WM
+
+ +
قطقاط رمادي املدروان دريجة صغيرة دريجة متنك
PM/SM/WM
+
+
PM/WM
+
+
PM/SM/WM
+
+
PM/WM
+
+
طيطوي مقوس املنقار
PM/SM/WM
+
+
+
الدريجة
PM/SM/WM
+
+
+
PM/WM
+
+
بقويقة مخططة الذيل
PM/SM/WM
+
+
+
كروان املاء الصغير
PM/SM/WM
+
+
+
كروان املاء
PM/SM/WM
+
+
+
بقويقة سوداء الذيل
60
NT (IUCN)
NT (IUCN)
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 3
طيطوي أحمر الساق أرقط
36
Spotted Redshank
Tringa erythropus
37
Common Redshank
Tringa totanus
38
Marsh Sandpiper
Tringa stagnatilis
39
Greenshank
Tringa nebularia
طيطوي أخضر الساق
40
Green Sandpiper
Tringa ochropus
الطيطوي األخضر
PM/WM
41
Wood Sandpiper
Tringa glareola
طيطوي الغياض
PM/WM
42
Terek Sandpiper
Tringa cinerea
طيطوي مغبر
طيطوي أحمر الساق طيطوي أخضر
43
Common Sandpiper
Actitis hypoleucos
طيطوي اعتيادي
44
Ruddy Turnstone
Arenaria interpres interpres
قنبرة املاء
45
Great Black-headed Gull
Larus ichthyaetus
نورس أسود الرأس كبير (نورس السمك نورس أسود الرأس
46
Black-headed Gull
Larus ridibundus
47
Slender-billed Gull
Larus genei
48
Lesser Black-backed (Baltic) Gull
Larus fuscus
49
Caspian Tern
Sterna caspia
خطاف بحر قزويني
50
Swift Tern
Sterna bergii
خطاف بحر سريع
51
Lesser Crested Tern
Sterna bengalensis
52
European Sandwich Tern
Sterna sandvicensis sandvicensis
53
White-cheeked Tern
54
نورس مستدق املنقار نورس أسود الظهر صغير
خطاف بحر متوج صغير
PM/WM
+
PM/SM/WM
+
+
+
PM/WM
+
+
+
PM/SM/WM
+
+
+
+ +
PM/SM/WM
+
PM/WM
+
PM/SM/WM
+ +
+
+
PM/WM
+
WM
+
+
+
PM/SM/WM
+
+
+
PM/WM
+
+
+
RB/PM/WM
+
Rare UAE breeder
MB/WM
+
+
Threatened in UAE
RB/MB/PM
+
+
Threatened in UAE
خطاف بحر (خرشنة) ساندوتش
PM/SM/WM
+
+
Sterna repressa
خطاف بحر أبيض اخلد
MB/PM/WM
+
+
+
Threatened in UAE
Bridled Tern
Sterna anaethetus
خطاف البحر األسحم
MB/PM
+
+
Threatened in UAE
55
Saunders' Little Tern
Sterna saundersi
خطاف بحر سوندرز
MB/PM
+
+
Small World Range
56
Rock Dove
Columba livia
+
+
حمام جبلي (يضم احلمام املستوحش ميام مطوق
57
Collared Dove
Streptopelia decaocto
58
Laughing Dove
Streptopelia senegalensis
ميام ضاحك (فاختة النخيل
59
Common Kingfisher
Alcedo atthis
صياد السمك (الرفراف
60
Pied Kingfisher
Ceryle rudis rudis
61
Hoopoe
Upupa epops
صياد السمك (الرفراف) األبقع الهدهد قبرة متوجة
+
RB RB/WM
+
+
+
RB
+
+
+
+
+
WM WM/V RB/MB/PM/ WM
+ +
Rare UAE breeder
62
Crested Lark
Galerida cristata
63
Barn Swallow
Hirundo rustica rustica
64
Blyth's Pipit
Anthus godlewskii
جشنة باليث (أبو مترة أو صعو باليث
PM/WM
+
65
Tawny Pipit
Anthus campestris
جشنة الصحراء (أبو مترة أو الصعو األصفر
PM/WM
+
66
Citrine Wagtail
Motacilla citreola citreola
ذعرة(فتاح) صفراء الرأس
PM/WM
+
67
White Wagtail
Motacilla alba
68
Isabelline Wheatear
Oenanthe isabellina
سنونو
ذعرة (فتاح) بيضاء بلق أشهب
61
RB
+
OB/PM/WM
+
WM
+
PM/WM
+
+
+
+
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 3
APPENDIX E – List of some bird species recorded in the respective areas أبلق البادية أو الصحراء
69
Desert Wheatear
Oenanthe deserti
70
Graceful Warbler
Prinia gracilis
71
Upcher's Warbler
Hippolais languida
72
Menetries' Warbler
Sylvia mystacea
73
Desert Warbler
Sylvia nana
74
Green Warbler
Phylloscopus nitidus
75
Southern Grey Shrike
Lanius meridionalis
76
House Crow
Corvus splendens
غراب دوري
RB
77
Common Mynah
Acridotheres tristis
مينة إعتيادية
RB
78
House Sparrow
Passer domesticus
عصفور دوري
RB
PM/WM
+
هازجة رشيقة
RB
+
هازجة الشجر (اخلنشع الشجري
PM
+
هازجة (دخلة) منتري الرأساء
PM/WM
+
هازجة (دخلة) الصحراء
PM/WM
نقشارة خضراء صرد(دقناش)الرمادي اجلنوبي
62
+
+
WM
+
RB/PM/WM
+ +
+
+
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 3
Appendix F -List of some reptiles recorded in the respective areas Location name
Family
Species
Common name
Hadariyat island
Gecko
Bunopus tuberculatus
Baluch Rock Gecko
Hadariyat island
Gecko
Bunopus tuberculatus
Baluch Rock Gecko
Hadariyat island
Gecko
Bunopus tuberculatus
Baluch Rock Gecko
Al Bahrani Island
Gecko
Bunopus tuberculatus
Baluch Rock Gecko
Al Bahrani Island
Lizard
Mesalina brevirostris
Short-nosed Sand Lizard
Sadiyat island
Gecko
Bunopus tuberculatus
Baluch Rock Gecko
Sadiyat island
Gecko
Bunopus tuberculatus
Baluch Rock Gecko
Sadiyat island
Gecko
Bunopus tuberculatus
Baluch Rock Gecko
Sadiyat island
Lizard
Mesalina brevirostris
Short-nosed Sand Lizard
Ras Garab Island
Lizard
Mesalina brevirostris
Short-nosed Sand Lizard
Ras Garab Island
Lizard
Mesalina brevirostris
Short-nosed Sand Lizard
Ras Garab Island
Gecko
Bunopus tuberculatus
Baluch Rock Gecko
Ras Garab Island
Gecko
Bunopus tuberculatus
Baluch Rock Gecko
Ras Garab Island
Lizard
Mesalina brevirostris
Short-nosed Sand Lizard
Ras Garab Island
Gecko
Stenodactylus khobarensis
Gulf Sand Gecko
Ras Garab Island
Lizard
Mesalina brevirostris
Short-nosed Sand Lizard
Ras Garab Island
Gecko
Bunopus tuberculatus
Baluch Rock Gecko
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera : Lasiocampidae
Strebolte
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera : Pieridae
Colotis
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Apidae
Xylocopa
63
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 3
Appendix G - List of some insect species recorded in the respective areas Location name
Phylum (Animal or Plant)
Order: Family
Genus
Species
Common name
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Isoptera : Rhinotermitidae
Psammotermes
hybostoma
Termites
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Formicidae
Monomorium
chobauti
Ant
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera: Dermestidae
Anthrenus
coloratus
Carpet Beetle
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Neuroptera: Chrysipidae
Chrysoperla
carnea
Green Lacewing
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Orthoptera: Pygromorphidae
Pygromorpha
conica
Bush hoppers
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera: Coccinellidae
Coccinella
unidecimpunctata
Eleven spot lady bird beetle
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Heteroptera : Lygaeidae
Dieuches
schmitzi
Ground bug
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Syrphidae
Eristalinus
aeneus
Shiny Dronefly
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Apidae
Apis
florea
Dwarf honey bee
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Collectidae
Chalicodoma
sp
Flower feeding bees
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Collectidae
Colletes inconspicua
sp
Flower feeding bees
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera: Curculionidae
Genus
sp
Weevils
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Homoptera: Psyllidae
Genus
sp
Jumping lice
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera: Curculionidae
Genus
sp
Weevils
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Neuroptera: Chrysipidae
Chrysoperla
carnea
Green Lacewing
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Lepisiota
opaciventris
Ants
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Anoplolepis
longitarsis
Ants
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Monomorium
fezzanense
Ants
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Homoptera: Cicadellidae
Neoaliturus
tenellus
Leafhopper
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Homoptera: Cicadellidae
Helionida
sp
Leafhopper
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Homoptera: Cicadellidae
Pergalia
sp
Leafhopper
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Monomorium
sp
Red & black ant
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Apidae
Pseudapsis
nilotica
Zebra bee
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae
Genus
sp
Parasitic wasp
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Formicidae
Componotus
xerxes
Desert giant ant
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Bethylidae
Genus
sp
Bethylid wasp
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Arachnida
Arachinidae: Aranea
Genus
sp
Spider
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae
Brephidium
exile
Western pigmy butterfly
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera: Microlepidoptera
Genus
sp
Micromoths
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Thysanoptera :Thripidae
Genus
sp
Thrips
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera: Coccinellidae
Scymnus
sp
Ladybird beetle
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Psocoptera: Lachesillidae
Genus
sp
Booklice
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Empididae
Genus
sp
Danceflies
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Neuroptera: Coniopterygidae
Genus
sp
Dusty wings
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Bethylidae
Genus
sp
Wasp
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Psocoptera : Lachesillidae
Genus
sp
Booklice
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Thysanoptera :Thripidae
Florithrips
traegardhi
Black thrips
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Neuroptera: Coniopterygidae
Genus
sp
Dusty wings
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera: Microlepidoptera
Genus
sp
Micromoths
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Monomorium
wahibiense
Red & black ant
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Orthoptera : Acrididae
Heteracris
littoralis
Yellow streak
64
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 3
Appendix G - List of some insect species recorded in the respective areas Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Heteroptera: Lygaeidae
Remaudierana
annulipes
Seed bugs
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Asilidae
Apoclea
femoralis
Robberfly
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Syrphidae
Eristalinus
aeneus
Shiny Dronefly
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera: Bruchidae
Genus
sp
Seed Beetles
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera: Curculionidae
Genus
sp
Weevils
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Ceratopogonidae
Genus
sp
Midges
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Anolepis
longitarsus
Ant
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera:
Genus
sp
Wasp
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Muscidae
Genus
sp
Flies
Abu Saeef Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Therevidae
Genus
sp
Stiltoflies
Location name
Phylum (Animal or Plant)
Order: Family
Genus
Species
Common name
Al Bharani Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera:Tenebrionidae
Apentanodes
arabicus arabicus
Darkling beetle
Al Bharani Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera:Tenebrionidae
Trachyderma
philstina
Scarce Stalker
Al Bharani Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera:Tenebrionidae
Mesostena
puncticollis
Opposum beetles
Al Bharani Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera:Tenebrionidae
Pimelia
sp
Darkling beetle
Al Bharani Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera : Sarcophagidae
Wohlfahrtia
nuba
Checker spot fly
Al Bharani Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Crabronidae
Philanthus
coarctatus
Wasp
Al Bharani Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Homoptera: Aphididae
Genus
sp
Plant lice
Al Bharani Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Psocoptera : Lachesillidae
Lachesilla
bernardi
Book lice
Al Bharani Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Thysanoptera :Thripidae
Eremiothrips
antelope
Yellow thrips
Al Bharani Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Heteroptera : Tingidae
Genus
sp
Lcae bugs
Al Bharani Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Formicidae
Monomorium
wahibiense
Red & black ant
Location name
Phylum (Animal or Plant)
Order: Family
Genus
Species
Common name
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae
Pimelia
arabica arabica
Arabian Darkling Beetle
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae
Microdera
marginata deserticola
Darkling beetle
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera:Scoliidae
Micromeriella
hyalina
Beetle wasp
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Carbonidae
Tachysphex
cheops
Wasp
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Formicidae
Monomorium
wahibiense
Common red & black ant
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Formicidae
Crematogaster
antaris
Acrobat ant
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Formicidae
Lepisiota
opaciventris
Common black ant
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Musidae
Musca
domestica domestica
Common Housefly
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Asilidae
Apoclea
femoralis
Robberfly
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Sarcophagidae
Wohlfahrtia
nuba
Flesh fly
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Isoptera :Termites
Psammotermes
hybostoma
Common Cyclops Termite
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Formicidae
Crematogaster
sp
Acrobat ant
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Musidae
Musca
lucidula
Housefly
65
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 3
Appendix G - List of some insect species recorded in the respective areas Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae
Brephidium
exilis
Western Pygmy-Blue
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera : Syrphidae
Eristalinus
aeneus
Shiney Dronefly
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Ceratopogonidae
Genus
sp
Non-biting midges
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Odonata : Libelluidae
Pantala
flavescens
Globe skimmer
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Orthoptera: Pyrgomorphidae
Pyrgomorpha
conica tereticornis
Hollow grass hopper
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Orthoptera: Pyrgomorphidae
Tenuitarsus
angusts
Grass hopper
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Heteroptera : Reduviidae
Genus
sp
Assassin bugs
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Collectidae
Collectes
inconspicua
Bees
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Pompillidae
Genus
sp
Spider hunting wasps
Sadiyat Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera : Bethylidae
Genus
sp
Bethylid wasp
Location name
Phylum (Animal or Plant)
Order: Family
Genus
Species
Common name
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Calliphoridae
Chrysomya
albiceps
False Greenbottle
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Calliphoridae
Chrysomya
megacephala
Winter greenbottle
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Musidae
Musca
domestica
Common Housefly
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera : Sarcophagidae
Wohlfortia
nuba
Checkerspot fly
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera : Asilidae
Apoclea
femoralis
The Highwayman
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Bombylidae
Bombylius
niveus
Beeflies
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera : Syrphidae
Genus
sp
Hoverflies
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera: Pyralidae
Spoladea
recuvalis
Beet Web Worm
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae
Tarucus
rosaceus
Mediterranean Tiger
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae
Brephidium
exiile
Western Pygmy-Blue
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae
Tarucus
balkanicus
Little tiger blue
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera : Papilionidae
Papilio
demoleus demoleus
Citrus swallowtail
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Monomorium
destructor
Red & black ant
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Lepisiota
opaciventris
Black ant
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Crematogaster
antaris
Acrobat ant
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Tachinidae
Genus
sp
Tachinid flies
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Ephydridae
Genus
sp
Flies
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Diptera: Ceratopogonidae
Genus
sp
Non-biting midges
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Heteroptera: Miridae
Orthotylus
pusillus
Leaf hopper
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera : Lasiocampidae
Strebolte
siva
Acacia lappet
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Lepidoptera : Pieridae
Colotis
phisadia
Blue spotted arab
Ras Gharab Island
Arthropoda : Insecta
Hymenoptera: Apidae
Xylocopa
aestuans
Canary Carpenter Bee
66
Coastal Development Guidelines Appendix 3
Appendix H - Checklist of Coral Reef Species confirmed in Ras Ghanada Platygyra daedalea Platygyra lamellina Favia pallida Favia speciosa Plesiastrea versipora Porites harrisoni Porites lutea Porites Iobata Cyphastrea Seraillia Cyphastrea microphthalma Psammocora sp. Siderastrea savignyana Coscinarea columna Acropora clathrata Acropora arabensis Acropora downingi Turbinaria reniformis Taiama dosiderastreaPseu
67
68
Acknowledgements
اﻟﻄﺒﻴﻌﺔواﻟﺘﺮاث اﻟﺜﻘﺎﻓﻲ
Natural & Cultural Heritage
69
Coastal Development Guidelines Acknowledgements
Acknowledgements The Urban Planning Council would like to acknowledge the assistance and support of the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi in preparing this document. Numerous individuals dedicated their time and effort to help compile relevant information and review this document and we would like to acknowledge in particular the Biodiversity section and Environmental Information Management / Abu Dhabi Global Environmental Data Initiative (AGEDI) team. The Urban Planning Council would like to thank the following individuals who provided valuable assistance in the development of this document: Thabit Al-Abdessalaam - Director, Marine Biodiversity, Environment Agency Abu Dhabi Dr Frederick Launay - Conservation Director, Emirates Wildlife Society Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak - Director, Emirates Wildlife Society Jim Heid – Founder and President, UrbanGreen Peter Hellyer - Archaeology expert and information advisor, National Media Council The Urban Planning Council would also like to acknowledge WS Atkins & Partners Overseas and Nautica Environmental Associates LLC who have graciously allowed the UPC to use the Environmental Context plans provided as examples in this document.
70
Coastal Development Guidelines Acknowledgements
For More Information This document was published by: Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council PO Box 62221, Abu Dhabi UAE Tel +971 02 409 6000 Fax + 971 02 443 2903 info@upc.gov.ae www.upc.gov.ae For more information on the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council, Plan Abu Dhabi 2030, or copies of the Plan or this publication, please contact: Mr. Fouad Kassem Associate Manager, Media Relations & Public Affairs Corporate Communications Department fouad.kassem@upc.gov.ae Tel. +971 02 409 6059
For more information on the UPC Development Review Process or Application Requirements, please contact: Ms. Asma Al Arabeed Administrative Assistant, Development Review Coordinator Development Review Team Asma.alarabeed@upc.gov.ae Tel. +971 02 409 6123
For more information on the vision, intent or content of these Guidelines in particular, please contact: Ms. Victoria Brown Associate Planner, Coastal and Maritime Areas Environment Team Victoria.brown@upc.gov.ae Tel. +971 02 409 6076
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