Maitha Al Hameli currently serves as the Head of the Marine Biodiversity Assessment and Conservation Section within the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD). In her role, she oversees key marine conservation projects, including the monitoring and conservation of critical marine ecosystems such as mangroves and seagrass beds. She also manages the team leading the coral nursery project, which rejuvenates deteriorated reefs along the Emirate of Abu Dhabi using resilient coral species.
Ms. Al Hameli leads the maritime wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and release program for Abu Dhabi. Her role also includes establishing effective management protocols, monitoring strategies, and conservation efforts for key and endangered species within Abu Dhabi’s waters, including marine turtles, dugongs, and dolphins.
A noted thought leader on climate issues with over 14 years of experience at EAD, Ms. Al Hameli served as a climate change adaptation expert on the negotiations team for the COP27 UAE delegation. She is also a member of the Year of Sustainability Experts Network and an Alumna and Fellow of the UAE National Expert Program. Ms. Al Hameli has spoken extensively about issues like biodiversity at global outlets including CNN and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).
