QAFCO, through the “Environmental Studies Centre- ESC” (formerly known as SARC) of the University of Qatar, constructed and deployed 150 Artificial Reef Balls off the Mesaieed Mangrove Beach in June 2006.

The artificial reef were deployed in the Mesaieed sea to enhance the natural marine environment. A Reef Ball is a designed Artificial Reef used to restore ailing coral reefs. Reef Balls are made of a special, marine friendly, concrete and are designed to mimic natural reef systems. They are used around the world to create habitats for fish and other marine species. Long-lasting artificial reefs are useful tools for restoring reef systems to a natural and productive balance.

Several Monitoring trips have been carried out to study the status of the artificial reef balls.A survey carried out in May of 2008 showed denser population of fish as well as a large school of fish juveniles around the reef, than what was observed in December 2007. Similarly the survey carried out in July 2008, showed visible new growth of sponge/coral on the reef balls, denser populations of fish such as yellow bar angel fish, grunts, resident snapper, hamour, as well as jelly fish.