Rare Green Turtle Nesting Reported in Abu Dhabi – A Key Highlight for Marine Conservation

A remarkable discovery has been made in the waters of Abu Dhabi, marking a significant moment for marine conservation in the region. The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) recently announced the first-ever recorded nesting of green turtles within the emirate, highlighting the potential for a thriving population. Green turtles, classified as an endangered species, are known to frequent Abu Dhabi’s waters but have never before been observed nesting within its territory. This exciting discovery, put in the spotlight on 19th February 2024 on the Khaleej Times website, occurred during the EAD’s annual turtle survey at one of the Al Dhafra region’s core nesting sites for hawksbill turtles.

While this marks a first for green turtle nesting, Abu Dhabi boasts a thriving population of over 6,000 marine turtles, with hawksbill and green turtles being the most prevalent. Nesting typically occurs between mid-March and mid-June, with the Al Dhafra region, specifically the waters between the islands of Bu Tinah and Abu Al Abyadh, serving as a crucial habitat due to the abundance of seagrass beds, coral reefs, and marine algae.

It should also be noted that Sir Bani Yas Island, known for its protected habitats and eight-kilometre no-fishing zone, offers another critical area for turtle breeding. It is additionally, where one will find the Arabian Wildlife Park; this sanctuary is home to over 17,000 animals that roam freely, and which can be spotted on wildlife drives from properties such as Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort. Such accommodation providers not only offer a unique setting for those in search of business hotels in Abu Dhabi for beachfront conferences and team building but also a chance to encounter diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.