About Karan Shroff

Karan Shroff is an 11th grade student at the American School of Dubai. Growing up in Dubai, he always appreciated green spaces and what they offer to society. As time passed, he started to build an interest in how cities can grow sustainably. As most people only see the UAE as a desert, Karan decided to create his book Beneath the Desert Sky: Unveiling the Green Heart of the UAE highlight the other side of his home country: the multitude of indigenous plants. He took all of the photos (bar one of seagrass) and completed all of the research on the different species of flora. In addition to his passion for sustainability, Karan is fascinated by the study of comparative religion. As he pursues higher education in the future, he hopes to major in both religion and sustainability.

Exploring the UAE’s Natural Wonders: A Student’s Guide to Six Pristine Sites

What many don’t realize is that the United Arab Emirates, despite its desert reputation, is an incredibly biodiverse place. My journey exploring the indigenous species of the Emirates took me from the rugged mountains of Al Ain to the thriving wildlife sanctuary of Dubai and the lush mangroves of Umm Al Quwain. This exploration revealed a surprising tapestry of ecosystems, each teeming with life adapted to the unique conditions of the region. From resilient desert plants to migratory birds and marine life in the coastal areas, the UAE’s biodiversity is as rich as it is unexpected. The following six sites … Continue reading