Abu Dhabi has stepped up its environmental protection measures, announcing that individuals who harm certain indigenous trees will now face a fine of Dh10,000.
The Department of Municipalities and Transport revealed that the new penalties will apply to three native tree species: Al Ghaf, Al Samar, and Al Sidr. The move is part of a broader effort to safeguard these species from the impact of urban expansion.
To enhance protection, authorities will begin coding and numbering these trees, allowing for better administrative and legal tracking. This initiative follows Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to preserving its natural environment, which previously included fines of up to Dh1 million for other environmental violations in 2021.
The regulations categorize violations into three areas: development and industrial activities, biodiversity and wildlife protection, and marine environment safety. Penalties escalate with repeated offenses.
In a separate effort last year, Abu Dhabi also banned the cultivation and sale of oleander plants, a toxic species, to protect residents, particularly children and pets, from poisoning risks.