• Ten nest boxes installed for kestrels and barn owls across Yas and Saadiyat Islands.
  • MoU with Aldar Education for student internships and industry talks.
  • Students actively involved in nest box installations and conservation education.
  • Initiative contributes to raptor population growth and ecosystem health.

In an inspiring move towards wildlife preservation, Miral, in partnership with the Mohamed bin Zayed Raptor Conservation Fund and Aldar Education, has successfully launched and celebrated the “Winged Horizons” initiative at the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center. This ambitious project aims to protect local raptors in Abu Dhabi, reaffirming Miral’s commitment to sustainability and environmental education.

The launch event was graced by notable attendees including His Excellency Abdulla Ahmed AlQubaisi, Dr. Andrew Dixon, Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Taghrid Alsaeed, Dr. Salim Javed, and Sahar Cooper. Their presence underscored the significance of this initiative in fostering a sustainable future.

“Winged Horizons” is an innovative conservation effort that began in February 2024, aiming to create safe nesting habitats for kestrels and barn owls across Yas Island and Saadiyat Island. Ten state-of-the-art nest boxes have been strategically placed at Yas Links Abu Dhabi, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. This initiative not only provides vital nesting sites but also engages the community in conservation efforts.

A highlight of the event was the signing of an MoU between Miral and Aldar Education, paving the way for future educational collaborations. Students from 12 Aldar Education schools will benefit from internships, industry expert talks, and community initiatives, fostering a new generation of conservationists.

Taghrid Alsaeed emphasized, “We are committed to delivering long-term value to our communities through environmental awareness and biodiversity conservation.”

The pilot program saw active participation from students and teachers of Mamoura British Academy and Bateen World Academy. These young conservationists were involved in the installation of nest boxes and attended educational lectures, gaining hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of local bird populations and their ecosystems.

Sarah Weaver, Principal of Mamoura British Academy, remarked, “Our students’ involvement in this project not only contributes to wildlife conservation but also instills a sense of environmental responsibility.”

The initiative’s impact extends beyond immediate conservation efforts. By providing researchers with critical data on raptor habits and breeding patterns, “Winged Horizons” contributes to a healthier ecosystem. Raptors play a crucial role in pest control and maintaining biodiversity, essential for the survival of numerous species.

Building on a successful project in Mongolia that significantly boosted the Saker Falcon population, the “Winged Horizons” initiative continues to support Abu Dhabi’s sustainability goals and economic growth.

Miral’s dedication to CSR and environmental stewardship exemplifies their vision of creating immersive, impactful experiences that resonate with the community and the natural world.

For more updates and to join the cause, visit Miral’s Instagram.