This week, Atlantis Dubai released five Honeycomb Stingrays and eight Arabian Carpetsharks into the Arabian Gulf at Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary, in collaboration with the Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority.
The release forms part of the Atlantis Atlas Project, the resort’s sustainability platform focused on marine conservation, responsible tourism and community impact. Twenty-five local school pupils attended the release and participated in a beach clean-up, gaining first-hand insight into ocean protection and waste management.
With more than one-third of global shark and ray species now considered threatened, targeted conservation is increasingly urgent. Atlantis launched its Honeycomb Stingray breeding programme in 2019 to support local populations. To date, 73 Arabian Carpetsharks and 17 Honeycomb Stingrays have been released into the wild.
Kelly Timmins, Executive Director of Sustainability and Marine Animal Operations, Atlantis Dubai, comments, “More than one third of shark, ray and chimaera species are now threatened with extinction, making conservation action more critical than ever. Through initiatives like this release, we are actively supporting local marine populations while helping to educate future generations about the role they can play in protecting our oceans. Impactful change starts with awareness, collaboration and long-term commitment.”
Each animal was born at the Lost World Aquarium and cared for in a dedicated marine hospital before undergoing health assessments and behavioural preparation for life in open water.
Beyond breeding and release, Atlantis Dubai integrates conservation into its wider operations. In 2025, the destination achieved EarthCheck Certification, Gold Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamps and the Forbes Travel Guide Verified Responsible Hospitality badge. For every marine animal experience booked by a guest, Atlantis contributes USD 1 (approximately AED 3.67) to conservation initiatives, raising over half a million dollars since 2021.
The message is clear. Conservation requires science, partnership and early education. Returning marine life to the Gulf is only part of the work. Ensuring future generations understand why it matters is the rest.
