A Year in the UAE: Wildlife, Recognition, and Renewed Purpose
I originally intended to begin this blog by comparing the UAE’s efforts in wildlife conservation, its approach to environmental sustainability, and the government’s support for talent and appreciation of professional work—both big and small—with those in Syria and Lebanon. But I quickly second-guessed myself.
The truth is, there’s simply no room for comparison. Holding the UAE up against countries like Lebanon and Syria in the context of wildlife, nature conservation, and ecological restoration wouldn’t be fair—to the UAE.
When it comes to environmental commitment, protected area management, and national-scale restoration initiatives, the UAE should be compared to the best, countries like Austria, Spain, or Poland—and nothing less.
My original intention in drawing comparisons wasn’t to criticize, but to explore what we might learn from the UAE. Perhaps there’s a model we could adapt, a mindset we could embrace, or a framework we could work toward.
I don’t want to sound hopeless—but the truth is, I’m getting close.
In Syria and Lebanon, it often feels like my words echo into silence. No matter how urgent, well-researched, or heartfelt the message, conversations around wildlife and nature preservation seem to go nowhere. Yes, passionate individuals exist—and I deeply respect them—but their efforts are rarely supported by policy, structure, or long-term vision. Worse still, they often face a culture where hunting and harming every beautiful living thing is roted in the culture.
Recently, I had the opportunity to showcase my work at the Design Gallery in Ras Al Khaimah, owned by Mr. Tarek Al Salman. The exhibition was a turning point for me—not only in terms of visibility, but in the connections it helped foster. I met a number of inspiring artists, and for the first time in a long while, I felt the presence of something rare: genuine support.
As a gesture of appreciation from the government of Ras Al Khaimah, the exhibition was inaugurated by His Excellency Mohammed bin Omran Al Shamsi, Special Advisor to His Highness the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. It was even featured in local newspapers, which gave the event further reach and recognition.
A few weeks later, we were invited to attend the public Majlis of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. While that initial invitation was eventually postponed, it was rescheduled as a private Majlis—an unexpected and deeply meaningful gesture.
If this act says anything, it’s this: artists are truly respected here. The care and attention extended to us—even when our work may seem minor compared to the nation’s larger efforts—reflects a deep and sincere appreciation and nurturing for creativity, documentation, and the value of cultural contribution.
His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah
Sitting in His Highness’s Majlis filled me with a deep sense of positive energy and reward—a renewed purpose and genuine hope for the future of my wildlife work here in the UAE. It was a visit that brought me real happiness and fueled my determination to do even more for the country’s wildlife. Knowing that I’ve reached this level of recognition and support in less than a year is both humbling and incredibly empowering.
I don’t want to return to comparisons—but for those from Lebanon and Syria, you’ll understand exactly what I mean. The contrast speaks for itself. What feels possible here still feels unimaginable back home. And yet, this only deepens my commitment to continue, to grow, and to document the natural beauty of this region with the respect it truly deserves.
