Volunteering with UAE Dolphin Project
About the UAE Dolphin Project
The UAE Dolphin Project is a non-profit initiative focused on marine conservation, in particular the dolphins and whales that live off the UAE coast. Its starting point is a simple problem: information on whales and dolphins in the Gulf is scarce, and the international cetacean science community considers the region “data deficient”. The project sets out to change that.
It is led by Dr Ada Natoli, a marine scientist who has taught at UAE University and Zayed University. Gulf News has described her as founder and director of the initiative. Its research has included surveys of Dubai’s coastal waters, covering more than 1,000 sq km from Port Rashid to the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary, working with partners such as Zayed University, Atlantis Dubai and Dubai Municipality. Species studied include the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin and the finless porpoise.
A key part of the project is public sighting reports. Residents, boat users and divers send in what they see, and the results feed a sighting map that is updated weekly.
What volunteers do
The project relies on public support and offers two kinds of volunteering:
- General volunteers help with one-off activities, such as public events or field work.
- Permanent volunteers join the core team, developing skills and expertise over a longer period. Permanent volunteers are automatically added to the general volunteer list too.
The project publishes a document listing its current permanent positions on its volunteering page, so check that to see what is open.
Who can volunteer
All volunteer positions are unpaid. Permanent roles generally need a minimum commitment of three to six months, at five to ten hours a week, and you will need to submit a CV. General volunteering is more flexible and suits people who want to help when they can.
Age limits are not published, but general volunteers are asked to give their age when signing up, so mention it clearly.
How to get involved
- Read the volunteering page. Go to uaedolphinproject.org/volunteering.
- For general volunteering: email sighting@uaedolphinproject.org with your name, age and mobile number.
- For a permanent role: check the list of current positions, then complete the online form on the volunteering page and attach your CV.
- Wait to hear back. The team will contact you when there is an activity or role that suits you.
Other ways to help
You do not need to be a volunteer to make a contribution. If you spot dolphins or whales while on a boat, paddleboarding, diving or even walking along the shore, report it. You can:
- Use the online sighting form
- Send an SMS to 056 671 7164
- Email sighting@uaedolphinproject.org
Photos help a great deal, as they can be used to identify species and sometimes individual animals. The project’s website has guidance on watching dolphins responsibly, identifying species and taking useful photos.
Researchers can also apply to join the UDP Research Forum, a space for knowledge exchange.
Good to know
If you come across dolphins, give them space. As general advice, slow down, do not chase or try to touch them, and let them choose how close to come. Note the time, location and number of animals for your report.
Permanent roles are a real commitment. Before applying, think honestly about whether you can give five to ten hours a week for several months.
The project did not list dated public events when we checked, so general volunteers should make sure they are on the email list.
A permanent role is a good fit for students and graduates in marine biology, environmental science or related fields, as well as people with skills in data, design, communications or photography. In your application, be specific about what you can offer and when you are available.
Even if you never volunteer formally, regular sighting reports add up. Every record helps build a clearer picture of where dolphins live and move along the UAE coast.
Contact and links
- Website: www.uaedolphinproject.org
- Volunteering: uaedolphinproject.org/volunteering
- Email: sighting@uaedolphinproject.org
- Sightings by SMS: 056 671 7164