The UAE is 80 per cent desert but remains committed to international efforts to combat desertification, said Dr Rashid bin Fahad, the Minister of Environment and Water yesterday.

"The UAE joins the rest of the world in celebrating the World Day to Combat Desertification on June 17, and reiterates its commitment to its theme, 'Don't let our future dry up'," he said.

Besides the ecological footprint and natural resource development, bio-security is among the top issues on the UAE's environment agenda, the Minister of Environment and Water said yesterday, according to Wam, the news state agency.

"These issues are tightly linked to the UAE's vision for the future and to the government's strategic plan," Dr Rashid bin Fahad said in his first formal media briefing, as part of a new government drive to have ministers regularly update the news media on their projects.

Abu Dhabi aims for global leadership on all fronts. Economic diversification will help it achieve this

At the centre of Abu Dhabi’s development is the creed that it is a modern society shaped by an ancient culture. This has been laid out in the emirate’s Plan Abu Dhabi 2030, the multifaceted initiative that directs its growth to satisfy the needs of a growing population while maintaining the sustainability of the environment and referencing its cultural heritage.

Thirteen families were evacuated from Al Ghayl area which was one of the most affected by the recent rains in Sharjah’s eastern region.

Khor Fakkan Kalba and Dibba Al Hisn also received good rains on Tuesday. Minor property damage was reported from Madah.