Ali Hamad Al Marri
In the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, where sun-scorched dunes stretch endlessly and rainfall is rare, the State of Qatar is emerging as a regional leader in environmental sustainability.
Against the odds of geography and climate, Qatar is writing a new narrative—one where desert nations not only protect their biodiversity, but thrive as models of green innovation.
Though small in size, Qatar boasts a surprising array of natural ecosystems. Its coastal waters support over 500 species of fish and rare marine mammals such as the dugong—the second-largest population of which resides in Qatari waters.
Inland, the desert hosts resilient plant species and iconic wildlife like the Arabian oryx, which once faced extinction. Preserving this rich natural tapestry has become a national priority. At the heart of these efforts lies the Qatar National Vision 2030, which makes environmental development one of its four foundational pillars.
This vision translates into concrete actions. Today, over 18% of Qatar’s land is designated as protected, including natural reserves like Al Reem Biosphere Reserve, a Unesco-recognised site. These reserves provide shelter for endangered species and act as living laboratories for environmental education. Urban areas are also part of the green transformation.
Qatar has launched a series of sustainable public parks, including Umm Al Seneem Park, one of the largest climate-controlled parks in the world, powered entirely by solar energy. It features shaded walkways, green roofs, and zero-emission systems—showcasing how environmental innovation can enhance public life. In coastal regions, Qatar is working diligently to restore coral reefs and safeguard marine life.
Through partnerships with academic institutions, the country has deployed artificial reefs and conducted underwater habitat mapping. Such initiatives help maintain biodiversity and support the livelihoods of local fishing communities.
Environmental education is another cornerstone of Qatar’s strategy. Programs led by the Friends of the Environment Center and Qatar Foundation reach thousands of students each year. Children are introduced to native plants, water conservation methods, and the importance of desert wildlife. In 2023 alone, over 12,000 young people participated in hands-on sustainability workshops across the country.
What makes Qatar’s efforts especially compelling is the integration of technology and research into its environmental agenda. The Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI) conducts cutting-edge studies on water security, air quality, and solar energy efficiency, providing science-backed solutions for Qatar and the region.
The country also uses digital tools to monitor air and marine pollution, deploying sensors and satellites to collect data that informs policy and response.
This scientific approach enhances transparency and ensures that Qatar’s environmental decisions are evidence-based and future-focused. Yet perhaps the most inspiring aspect of Qatar’s environmental journey is the growing sense of community ownership. In the face of global environmental challenges, Qatar’s experience offers a hopeful blueprint.
Al Marri is an employee at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change , Reserves and Wildlife Department.
