Atlantis Dubai Makes Waves with Release of 23 Sharks and Rays

4 mins

Atlantis Dubai continued to demonstrate its dedication to marine conservation with the recent release of three honeycomb stingrays and 20 […]

Atlantis Dubai continued to demonstrate its dedication to marine conservation with the recent release of three honeycomb stingrays and 20 Arabian carpet sharks into the Arabian Gulf.

Conducted at Jebel Ali Marine Sanctuary – a protected area – the release is a significant step in the resort’s ongoing efforts to support local ecosystems and combat the challenges facing the region’s marine life.

‘Releasing these animals isn’t just about giving back to the ocean, it’s about creating awareness and encouraging others to join the conservation movement,’ explains Kelly Timmins, Executive Director of Sustainability and Marine Animal Operations at Atlantis Dubai.

‘These species are 100 per cent native to the Arabian Gulf, and our careful planning ensures they have the best chance of survival in their natural habitat.’

Atlantis Dubai staff help release a carpet shark on the beach

The release of carpet sharks and honeycomb stingrays, born and cared for at Atlantis before being released into the wild, highlights the importance of breeding programs in maintaining healthy populations of marine animals.

Prior to release, the animals undergo careful health assessments and behavioural conditioning to prepare them for life in the wild, and the release into a marine protected area was no coincidence. ‘At Atlantis, we don’t just care for marine life within our facility; we aim to give them the best possible start in the wild by ensuring their habitat has adequate food and protection,’ says Kelly.

Atlantis Dubai: Committed to Conservation

The release is part of a larger conservation strategy that extends beyond animal welfare. Since 2019, Atlantis Dubai has released 58 carpet sharks and 10 honeycomb rays into the Arabian Gulf, contributing to the biodiversity of the region. The two species, which thrive in coral reefs, lagoons, and mangroves, play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Their release underscores the importance of protecting native species to balance marine biodiversity.

In addition to wildlife releases, Atlantis Dubai has spearheaded community engagement programs to foster environmental stewardship. Following the release, Atlantis colleagues joined forces with local schools, Dubai Municipality, and Nakheel representatives for a beach cleanup. The effort not only helped remove debris washed ashore on the protected coastline, but also educated participants on the critical role of waste management in protecting marine ecosystems.

Atlantis staff and volunteers stand on the beach with lots of bags of picked litter

‘Marine litter is one of the greatest challenges we face, and engaging the community is essential,’ says Kelly. ‘Through activities like beach cleanups, we’re able to inspire local action and empower individuals to play their part in protecting our oceans.’

Atlantis Dubai’s conservation efforts extend far beyond wildlife releases. In 2024, the resort’s team dedicated over 118 volunteer hours to local cleanup initiatives, removing significant amounts of waste from beaches and deserts. The Atlantis Atlas Project has also made a measurable impact by funding innovative recycling initiatives, including the ‘Save the Butts’ campaign, which has transformed over 39,000 cigarette butts into building materials.

Atlantis Dubai’s sustainability achievements are underscored by its accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and membership in the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) reflecting the resort’s adherence to the highest standards of animal care, welfare, and conservation.

honeycomb stingray in a net before being released into the sea

Education is a cornerstone of Atlantis Dubai’s mission. Through its world-class aquarium and sustainability initiatives, the resort actively engages guests in marine conservation. For every marine animal experience, $1 is contributed to projects that protect oceans and ecosystems. Since 2021, this initiative has raised over $250,000.

‘We’re not just here to care for marine animals; we want to connect people with the ocean and inspire them to take action,’ explains Timmins. ‘Every small step we take, from recycling waste to releasing native species, is part of a much bigger effort to create a sustainable future.’

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