Sea turtles have been spotted laying eggs at the Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort in Fujairah for the first time.
The siting coincided with World Turtle Day, held annually on May 23rd.
While turtles colonies are thriving on the west coast of the UAE, sightings in its eastern waters are rarer – and none have ever been witnessed onshore in Fujairah.
The beach area has now been protected and warning signs put up in order for the eggs to hatch without any disturbances or risk from predators.
‘We have a responsibility to our nation to contribute towards maintaining clean beaches, protecting our oceans, and preserving the marine life that calls them home.’
Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan bin Khalid Al Qasemi
The Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort team say this is likely to take place in the next 50 to 60 days. The confirmation of the species will be determined once the baby turtles hatch.
Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP) ambassador Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan bin Khalid Al Qasemi said: ‘The existence of a turtle nest on the beaches of the Emirate of Fujairah is a cause for celebration. We have a responsibility to our nation to contribute towards maintaining clean beaches, protecting our oceans, and preserving the marine life that calls them home.’
The development underscores an urgent need to protect and promote sea turtle nesting along the Fujairah coast
The public is strongly encouraged to report any sightings of sea turtles nesting or incidents involving sea turtles along the UAE coast.
World Turtle Day
The annual observance of World Turtles Day on May 23 began in 2000, following a high-profile rescue operation for a large American tortoise that spotlighted the species’ scarcity.
The event aims to raise awareness about the threats facing turtles, support conservation efforts for endangered species, and foster community engagement.
Out of the seven surviving species of sea turtles, the UAE is home to five.
Turtles are most prevalent in Abu Dhabi’s waters which are home to more than 5,000, from both the Green and Hawksbill species.
The number of Green turtles ranges between 3,500-4000, while Hawksbill turtles are found in smaller numbers, estimated at about 1,000-1,500.
