Dubai completes first 1,000 reef modules in world’s largest purpose-built marine project

Dubai has reached a major milestone in marine conservation with the Dubai Reef project, the world’s largest purpose-built reef development, having completed the fabrication of its first 1,000 reef modules. Initiated in April 2024 by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, this extensive project aims to promote biodiversity and ecological sustainability in Dubai’s waters. Spanning 600 square kilometers, the Dubai Reef is the second significant project under the Dubai Can sustainability initiative.

The ambitious project will deploy a total of 20,000 reef modules of varying sizes over a three-year period, with the first 1,000 modules set to be installed starting in the last week of November 2024. These modules will be strategically placed at different depths, ranging from 15 to 25 meters, across four clusters to create diverse marine habitats. Varying in height from 1.6 to 6.5 meters, the modules are purposefully designed to support a variety of reef fish and aquatic fauna, including hard and soft corals, sea anemones, sponges and mollusks, fostering a balanced and thriving marine ecosystem.

Construction of the Dubai Reef modules began in August 2024, using the Arab Marine Pyramid module type as the foundation. Fabricated by HaejooX at a facility powered by biofuels, these modules are built with durable, eco-friendly materials to withstand ocean conditions and encourage marine life growth.

The project shows Dubai’s commitment to sustainability, aligning with the emirate’s broader efforts to protect marine biodiversity and restore ecological balance in the Gulf. By providing essential habitats for diverse species, Dubai Reef enhances local biodiversity and positions Dubai as a leading force in global marine conservation and environmental innovation.