The Hail and Ghasha project holds a critical role in the UAE’s strategic objective of gas self-sufficiency and expanding gas exports. The groundbreaking initiative – the first of its kind aiming to operate with net-zero CO₂ emissions will capture 1.5 million tonnes of CO₂ annually, which will be transported onshore and securely stored underground. Additionally, the low-carbon hydrogen produced will serve as a cleaner alternative to fuel gas, further reducing emissions. Situated within the Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve (MMBR), the UAE’s first UNESCO- designated biosphere reserve, which comprises more than 60% of Abu Dhabi’s marine protected zones; the project will also harness clean energy from Abu Dhabi’s electricity grid, utilizing both nuclear and renewable sources. Illustrating how large-scale industrial developments can integrate sustainable solutions, the Hail and Gasha project has applied biodiversity protection, innovative infrastructure, restoration and technology to deliver more energy with lower emissions and environmental impact. By focusing on both energy production and environmental stewardship, ADNOC demonstrates that industrial development can coexist with the preservation of vital marine ecosystems throughout the lifecycle of the project. During the concept and design phase, ADNOC, in collaboration with the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi (EAD), conducted one of the largest marine Environmental Impact Assessments ever undertaken in the country, with the findings integrated into a comprehensive biodiversity program. Key measures undertaken since then include marking the MMBR sea boundaries, refurbishing the Bu Tinah Central Building to support EAD’s marine research and protection, surveying the marine biodiversity of the area, developing the MMBR Marine Species Catalogue and education programs, restoring mangroves, installing osprey nests and deploying artificial reefs to boost biodiversity. The project also reduces environmental disruption by using artificial islands, significantly reducing the need for dredging across more than 100 planned well locations. For ongoing facilities’ construction and drilling activity, ADNOC is implementing an EAD-approved Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), which restricts activities like dredging and pipe laying to designated areas, while enforcing strict controls on marine ecology, noise, air and soil quality to uphold best environmental practices. In line with ADNOC’s broader sustainability goals, the project also includes planting one million mangroves, deploying enhanced artificial coral reefs and supporting marine conservation, including a turtle rescue and rehabilitation program in collaboration with EAD and other partners. Technologically advanced drilling methods are being used to eliminate traditional well construction steps by enabling fluid recovery and reinjection, further reducing the environmental impact. Hail and Ghasha – an innovative approach to development and biodiversity “ As an environment engineer on this project, I am proud to see how our efforts balance human development with nature. The construction of artificial islands, named after traditional pearl diving sites, honors the region's rich cultural heritage, providing a controlled and minimally invasive environment, allowing marine species to flourish and thrive. This initiative reflects our commitment to preserving the natural beauty and ecological balance of the Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve.” ● Nada Abujarad Environment Engineer, ADNOC Upstream 94