Living Lab: a Massive Eco-Project That’s All About Marine Health

A floating living lab is in development to be launched off the coast of Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, where the restoration of marine ecosystems will be a priority, ecotourism will be promoted, and sustainable living will be included.

“The health of our cities is intrinsically tied to the health of our oceans,” says Baharash Bagherian, CEO of URB. “Beyond creating a unique resilient destination for ecotourism and marine research, Dubai Reefs aims to become a blueprint for ocean living, whilst mitigating the impacts of climate change.”

Dubai Reefs’ goal is to safeguard Dubai’s marine and coastal environment. To that effect, a diverse artificial reef spanning 200 km will be created where more than 1 billion corals and 100 million mangrove trees will thrive. Floating eco-lodges – powered entirely by renewable sources such as solar and hydropower – will accommodate tourists in an eco-friendly, responsible, and sustainable way. Moreover, the climate-friendly method of food production, “Regenerative Ocean Farming”, is included in the project. Dubai Reefs is expected to create more than 30,000 jobs within a green economy.