Today's Edition
ABU DHBAI (ALETIHAD)
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has launched an instant service for eligible individuals to obtain a camel grazing license through the TAMM platform.
The agency also announced the start of the grazing season in the emirate, which will run from May 15 to October 15, 2025.
The launch of the service falls within the requirements of Law No. (11) of 2020 and its executive regulations, regulating grazing in the Abu Dhabi emirate. EAD seeks to ensure the sustainable use of natural resources in accordance with the highest environmental standards, while meeting the needs of the local community and preserving pastoralism as a traditional practice and an integral part of the UAE's national identity.
Based on the executive regulations of the Grazing Regulation Law, EAD issues licenses to camel owners and breeders who meet specific criteria. To obtain a camel grazing license, the applicant must be a UAE citizen, at least 21 years’ old, and employ a ranger of at least 18 years of age for the camels. The applicant must also have a valid livestock inventory certificate approved by the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA).
License holders are required to graze in open wilderness areas and to stay at least two kilometres away from nature reserves, forests, residential and private areas, military and oil and gas facilities, roads, and prohibited areas. They are also required not to leave camels grazing without the supervision of a ranger and to adhere to the grazing period specified in the license.
Camel breeders and owners who have a grazing license must adhere to several environmental requirements, including not introducing invasive plants, animals or any harmful substances into grazing areas.
According to the new service, the breeders must not uproot, burn, move, cut, destroy, harvest, remove or collect grazing plants or any part thereof in those areas, and must undertake not to harm biodiversity or cause any environmental damage. Leaving fences, tools, materials or other waste is prohibited in the grazing areas, and they must not approach water well sites. The use of bicycles, cars, or any type of vehicle or machinery that negatively impacts the vegetation cover is not permitted. Transferring the grazing license to another person is also prohibited.
EAD has coordinated with several relevant entities to ensure smooth access to the service via the TAMM platform. This coordination underscores the agency's commitment to the wise leadership's directive to provide efficient and prompt environmental licensing services.
The agency recognises the valuable role of the local community in sharing their traditional grazing knowledge and experiences with its specialists, which informs the planning and formulation of effective grazing policies, legislation and procedures.
