Abu Dhabi, Sep 23 (IANS/WAM) Bu Tinah island in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is aiming to be among the world’s new seven wonders of nature.

Bu Tinah, located around 130 km from Abu Dhabi, is a core area of the Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve – the first marine biosphere reserve in the Gulf region. It was shortlisted among 28 finalists from a list of 447 global sites. Winners of the new seven wonders of nature will be announced Nov 11, 2011.

Despite the region’s harsh temperatures and salinity, the marine habitat and the species living in it, including coral, seagrass, dugongs and sea turtles, continue to thrive, making the island an important location for research.

The UAE’s top officials have asked the people to create awareness about Bu Tinah and its rich biodiversity and urged all to vote for it.