Abstract

More recently, Qatar has undergone a remarkablesocial and economic transformation in less than a generation.Although Qataris have a historic connection to the sea, datingback to the pearl diving days in the 19th century, the marineenvironment requires many interventions to be managed in asustainable manner. Given the fact that coral reefs play animportant role in the coastal ecosystem in this peninsular state,principles of environment sustainability should be undertakenfor this significant habitats along the Qatari shores. Localpressures and climate change are among the most importantfactors that have negatively affected Qatar's coral communities.Other major threats result largely from human activities.<br>To achieve sustainable development that preserves theEnvironment is a core goal especially included in all recentdevelopment regimes in Qatar. A balance between developmentneeds and protecting the environment represents the fourthpillar of Qatar National Vision 2030. An explicit reference isalso documented in the two most recently adopted strategies ofdevelopment. This study introduces a good opportunity forQatar to position itself as a regional leader in the use ofenvironmental management systems that integrate multiplepartners in guiding and conserving coral reefs as part ofvaluable ecosystems as a right of future generations of Qatarinationals guaranteed by the country's sustainable developmentagenda. It defines 4-stage engagement framework that include 9diverse stakeholders proposed to participate in the managementof coral reef ecosystems, therefore, facilitate monitoring andenforcement, enhance understanding of system dynamics,improve management capacity to respond to shocks anddisturbances, and facilitate teamwork.