Abu Dhabi will host the 2025 International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress from October 9 to 15. The announcement reflects the United Arab Emirates’ growing role in international environmental diplomacy and its sustained efforts to advance biodiversity conservation.

The IUCN Congress, held every four years, is regarded as one of the most significant global platforms for environmental governance and conservation science. It convenes government leaders, scientists, civil society, youth representatives, and private sector stakeholders to shape conservation priorities and promote nature-based solutions to pressing ecological challenges.

Among the central features of the 2025 Congress will be a major update to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species - widely considered the most authoritative global resource for assessing species' extinction risks. The update will include the European Red List of Threatened Species and a particular emphasis on pollinators, whose populations are under increasing pressure worldwide.

The Congress will also see the release of the latest IUCN World Heritage Outlook, a critical assessment of the health and management of natural World Heritage sites globally. In addition, the IUCN will present its highest honors, including the Cullman Medal, the John C. Phillips Memorial Medal, and the 2025 International Ranger Awards. The host nation for the next IUCN World Parks Congress will also be announced.

Dr. Amna Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, noted that the UAE currently maintains 49 protected areas, encompassing roughly 15.5 percent of its territory. The country has pledged to plant 100 million mangroves by 2030 and continues to lead wildlife reintroduction programs, efforts rooted in the environmental legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

“The UAE continues to strengthen its role as a global hub for practical, innovative solutions to environmental and biodiversity challenges,” said Dr. Al Dahak.

Dr. Shaikha Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi and IUCN Regional Councillor for West Asia, emphasized the inclusive nature of the event: “We look forward to welcoming participants from across the globe to Abu Dhabi.”

Established in 1964, the IUCN Red List is considered a cornerstone of conservation science. It provides comprehensive, peer-reviewed assessments of the status of species across all regions, helping guide global policy and local conservation strategies. The Red List is developed through a vast international network of scientists and conservation organizations.

IUCN Director General Dr. Grethel Aguilar underscored the Congress’s role as “a critical opportunity to deliver real, science-based solutions supported by communities and grounded in clear policy frameworks.”

The 2025 Congress is expected to solidify new global initiatives that may shape the future of conservation policy, reinforcing international collaboration at a moment of accelerating biodiversity loss and environmental change.

Photo credits: IUCN World Conservation Congress

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.