Okay, picture this: a room full of folks who love the ocean so much they probably dream in shades of aquamarine. Now add a dash of serious science, a sprinkle of rescuers-on-call, and – because it’s 2025 and we can’t escape it – a bit of AI wizardry. That, my friends, is how the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center rolled into the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi and promptly made waves. (Pun absolutely intended.)
The Center – the region’s largest dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation, and return facility – brought brains, boots, and big-hearted energy to four days of talks, workshops, and very focused conversations about the future of our seas. Their crew wasn’t just there to look smart in lanyards (though they did); they shared practical, on-the-water know-how on topics that actually matter: wildlife rescue ops, plastic pollution, seagrass conservation, and how to get kids excited about saving the planet without putting them to sleep.
Talks that mattered (and weren’t boring)
From strandings to cuttlefish – yes, cuttlefish, and yes, they’re as fascinating as they sound – the Center’s experts led sessions that mixed frontline experience with cutting-edge research. One session dove into strandings: how teams respond, what they’ve learned, and why early intervention can mean the difference between rescue and tragedy. Another workshop turned the spotlight on cuttlefish research, reminding us that tiny, squishy sea-critters can teach us massive lessons about biodiversity and ecosystem health.
The innovation angle was also delicious: AI isn’t just a buzzword on a flashy slide. Yas SeaWorld showcased ways technology is accelerating conservation work – from faster data analysis to smarter monitoring of coastal habitats. It’s the kind of tech that helps scientists work smarter, not replace the human compassion that’s essential in rescue and rehab.
And because marine conservation won’t survive without the next generation, the team put a special focus on youth-focused initiatives. Translation: programs that actually make conservation accessible and exciting for young people – no guilt trips, just adventure and purpose.
Team effort (spoiler: teamwork makes the dream work)
Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue didn’t fly solo. The Center’s crew was joined by the SeaWorld® Yas Island veterinary and education team – folks who bring the medicine, the microscopes, and the motivational pep talks that turn curious visitors into conservation advocates. Together they covered a lot of ground (figuratively and, let’s be honest, sometimes literally – you can’t have a rescue demo without muddy boots).
The Congress itself brought heavy hitters to the table – leaders, decision-makers, and policy-heads who shape conservation priorities globally – which made it an ideal spot for the Center to plug into bigger conversations and make sure regional challenges (hello, Arabian Gulf!) get the global attention they deserve.
A snap-happy moment: One Ocean Photo Contest
Not everything at the Congress was serious science (thankfully). The Yas SeaWorld team launched the One Ocean Photo Contest, an annual initiative celebrating Abu Dhabi’s marine life and coastal beauty through local eyes. If you love sunsets, waves, fish faces, or the odd photographer-in-waders, this is a lovably local way to showcase what we’re protecting. Share your best snaps – it’s community storytelling in full color.
A note from the helm
Dr. Elise Marquis, Senior Director of the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, summed it up nicely:
“We were thrilled to participate in this year’s IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi. At the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, we are deeply committed to advancing the science and awareness of conservation challenges affecting species and ecosystems across the Arabian Gulf. This congress offered an invaluable platform to connect with both the local community and international conservation leaders who share our mission, empowering us to strengthen our efforts, expand our impact, and drive meaningful change for the region’s sustainable future.”
Translation: they’re in it for the long haul – science, community, and real-world action. No flashy fireworks, just steady work and better outcomes for marine life.
If you see wildlife in trouble (please read this bit)
Look – the feeling of being helpfull is great! If you spot a sick or distressed animal in the wild, don’t try to play hero solo. Call the pros so the animal gets proper care. Report it to the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) by calling the Abu Dhabi Government Call Center at 800-555 or directly at 056-503-0060.
Final splash
The Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center’s presence at the IUCN Congress was the kind of plug-in that matters: connecting local knowledge with global networks, rolling up sleeves to fix problems, and inviting the community to join via photography, outreach, and education. If you like your conservation served with a side of passion, pragmatism, and a wink of optimism – you’ll want to keep an eye on what they do next.
And hey – go take that photo of the coastline. You might help inspire the next marine scientist, volunteer, or simply someone who decides to stop tossing plastic into the sea. Small actions, big ripples.
