The Duke, who wore a mask, was told that mangroves capture four times more carbon than tropical forests. The intertidal forests play a vital role in protecting coasts from storms and floods. The new initiative hopes to become a world-leading conservation centre for mangroves.

Mark Leppard, the headmaster of The British School Al Khubairat, Abu Dhabi, said: “The children who were introduced to the Prince are part of out global leaders programme, who all volunteer, and follow the 20 global goals for sustainability.

“This initiative is part of improving the local environment. They’ve been excited and surprised and this came through ecstatic about sharing their thoughts.”

The school has 65 different nationalities. The Duke spoke to Amaan Haider, 13, and Lily-Rose Mayall, 12, who planted mangrove saplings.

He was joined for the visit by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the son of Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince.