David McGrath

Background

About David McGrath

I am an environmental specialist with 14 years experience, focusing on coastal ecosystems across the Red Sea, Arabian Gulf, and Arabian Sea regions. As Practice Lead for Coastal Ecosystem Restoration, I specialize in coastal ecology and oversee long-term seagrass monitoring, mangrove restoration, and blue carbon programmes in Saudi Arabia. With a background in environmental impact assessment, ecological management and monitoring, my project experience spans industrial water production, oil and gas, mining, capital dredging, urban and tourism development, renewable energy, and biodiversity conservation planning. This broad experience base has afforded me a strong understanding of both marine and terrestrial ecosystems in the arid-subtropics and the associated challenges faced by the increasing urbanization of the coastal zone. Since 2010, I have worked extensively in the UAE and Saudi Arabia and have a proven track record of leading multinational, multidisciplinary teams to deliver complex ecological projects. I also have experience of delivering projects in Oman, Qatar, Guinea and Indonesia.