World leaders, scientists, youth, and indigenous voices will gather from October 9–15 to accelerate biodiversity protection, unveil new global initiatives, and shape a nature-positive future.
Abu Dhabi to host global leaders, indigenous voices, scientists, and youth for a transformative conservation agenda from October 9–15, 2025
Abu Dhabi is set to become the epicenter of global conservation as it hosts the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 from October 9–15, organized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and co-hosted by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi.
The high-profile congress will bring together heads of state, policymakers, indigenous communities, researchers, youth, civil society, and the private sector to accelerate collective action on biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable development. The gathering comes at a critical moment, as the 2030 deadlines for the Paris Agreement, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework draw closer.
Key Highlights of the Congress
- Launch of global initiatives: New conservation programs are expected to be unveiled, strengthening international collaboration.
- IUCN Red List update: The world’s most authoritative assessment on species extinction risk will be updated, alongside a new European Red List focused on pollinators.
- World Heritage Outlook: A fresh assessment of the health and pressures facing natural World Heritage sites will be released.
- Environmental leadership spotlight: Grammy Award-winning composer and UNCCD Goodwill Ambassador Ricky Kej will deliver a keynote, blending creative advocacy with conservation.
- Recognition and awards: IUCN will present the Coolidge Memorial Medal, John C. Phillips Memorial Medal, and the International Ranger Awards 2025. The host nation for the next IUCN World Parks Congress will also be announced.
UAE’s Conservation Legacy
The UAE’s conservation journey, rooted in the vision of its Founding Father Sheikh Zayed, continues to inspire global action. From banning wild bird hunting in the 1970s to spearheading mangrove restoration with a 100-million target by 2030, the country has emerged as a leader in ecological restoration and marine protection. Innovations such as the Nabat AI climate-tech platform, the Jaywun research vessel, and the Plant Genetic Resources Centre reflect its commitment to fusing tradition with cutting-edge science.
Speaking ahead of the congress, Her Excellency Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, emphasized the country’s holistic approach:
“The UAE is home to 49 nature reserves, covering 15.5% of our territory. This demonstrates our commitment to conserving ecosystems, restoring biodiversity, and addressing climate change through innovation and collaboration.”
Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, highlighted the congress as a “defining moment for collective environmental leadership,” stressing the role of technology, indigenous knowledge, and youth in shaping a nature-positive future.
Global Changemakers in Attendance
The congress will feature a diverse line-up of leaders, including:
- Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment
- Juan Carlos Navarro, Minister of Environment, Panama
- Razan Al Mubarak, IUCN President
- Dr Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General
- Dr David Obura, Chair of IPBES
- Alessandra Yupanqui, Andean activist and editor-in-chief of Sapiens
- Eric Jing, Chairman and CEO of Ant Group
These voices will drive dialogue across urgent themes, from biodiversity protection and indigenous rights to aligning conservation with energy transitions.
Decisions That Shape the Future
The Members’ Assembly, IUCN’s highest decision-making body, will also convene during the event. With 200 draft motions on the table, the outcomes are set to define IUCN’s global policy agenda and influence environmental governance worldwide.
Dr Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General, summed up the urgency:
“This year’s congress represents a pivotal opportunity to drive real solutions—grounded in science, supported by communities, and enabled by policy. The time for collective action is now.”
With Abu Dhabi as host, the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 is expected to shape a bold new chapter in conservation, one that unites nations, sectors, and generations in building a nature-positive future for people and the planet.