In a remarkable environmental milestone, Abu Dhabi has officially entered the Guinness World Records for organizing the world’s largest underwater cleanup, reinforcing the UAE’s global leadership in marine conservation and sustainability.
The record-breaking initiative, titled “Dive for the Planet,” brought together over 700 certified divers and volunteers from around the world, who united at Al Bahya Beach and nearby coastal waters to remove debris and plastics from the seabed. The event covered more than 9,000 square meters of underwater area, collecting over 12 tonnes of waste, including fishing nets, plastics, and other pollutants that threaten marine life.
Organized by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) in collaboration with local diving centers, NGOs, and maritime authorities, the event aimed to raise awareness about the impact of ocean pollution and promote collective responsibility toward preserving the planet’s blue ecosystems.
Guinness World Records officials were present to certify the achievement, marking it as the largest underwater cleanup drive by participation and volume of waste collected in a single day.
Speaking about the achievement, Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of the EAD, said:
“This record is not just about numbers — it’s about a message. The UAE is showing the world that protecting our oceans is everyone’s duty. Every piece of plastic we remove today gives marine life a better chance tomorrow.”
Divers reported encountering turtles, coral reefs, and native fish species during the cleanup, emphasizing the need for continued marine protection to sustain biodiversity in the Arabian Gulf.
The event also included educational workshops, recycling drives, and awareness programs for local schools and families, aligning with the UAE’s Year of Sustainability and its long-term Net Zero 2050 strategy.
Abu Dhabi’s record now stands as a global symbol of unity for environmental action, proving that teamwork beneath the waves can create change on the surface
