The word Azraq gives credence to the mother tongue within the United Arab Emirates; being the Arabic word for "Blue" and it defines the marine environment that Azraq serves to conserve and protect.
We are a non-profit marine conservation organisation registered with the Community Development Authority in the UAE on a mission to safeguard and protect the oceanic ecosystem.
Azraq aims to EDUCATE through awareness programs and community presentations, MOTIVATE individuals, organisations and communities at large to make a difference and ACTIVATE them by offering a range of activities on, in and around the ocean.
A brief history
Azraq was founded in 2017, by Natalie Banks a marine conservationist and scuba diving instructor. With her NGO marine conservation experience in Australia, she saw a perfect opportunity to continue spreading awareness in the UAE. Natalie has successfully grown the marine conservation community with more than 200 members across the Emirates, launching several campaigns including #totesbetterthanplastic and #shopsustainblefashion and making her mark in getting communities to care about our ocean.
Message from the President:
Pollution, climate change, overexploitation of resources and habitat destruction are pushing our oceans to the edge. Fortunately, we have the power to rebuild a resilient and vibrant ocean. Together, we can shape a sustainable future; for us, our children and future generations.
Hala Dahmane, President - Managing Director
Our Mission & Vision
Azraq’s mission is to safeguard the biodiversity of delicately balanced oceanic ecosystems for future generations.
Our vision is a world in which oceans are healthy and flourishing.
We aim to achieve cleaner and healthier oceans by increasing the protection of oceanic ecosystems and marine life, as well as by raising awareness of issues impacting the marine environment, and the life within it.
Through education and conservation projects, we empower communities to take action for ocean health.
“The greatest danger to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it”
our proud achievements…
More than 50 Beach cleanups across the UAE
Marine Conservation Presentations at multiple schools + corporations in the UAE
Reduced use of plastic in the hospitality industry at over 55 outlets
Removed millions of plastic straws from circulation in UAE
Recovered 60,000 plastic utensils from circulation in UAE
Prevented over 15,000 balloons being released as part of the Happiness Festival in Ras Al Khaimah
Over a tonne of marine debris collected