As sea temperatures rise and global reefs face mounting pressure, NYU Abu Dhabi marine scientists dive into the waters of the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman to monitor the health of coral reefs. Led by the Burt Marine Biology Lab at NYUAD, and with support from Mubadala ACCESS, these scientists are behind the UAE’s National Coral Reef Monitoring Program.
Across 25 key reef sites, the lab’s researchers and trained divers conduct standardized underwater surveys to assess coral cover, species diversity, and signs of reef health or decline. This data collection is a strategic effort to track long-term changes in the region’s reefs, some of the most heat-adapted in the world.
