Fujairah: The Fujairah Environment Authority (FEA), in partnership with the Fujairah Research Centre (FRC) and Jumeirah Group’s Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP), has deployed experts to safeguard a sea turtle nest discovered along the coast of Fujairah. Dr. Juan Diego Urriago, a renowned Marine Consultant, and Fujairah Marine Ranger Abdullah Bakhsh have been entrusted with the crucial task of protecting the turtles from potential disturbances and predators.
This remarkable find coincides with the annual nesting and hatching period of sea turtles in Fujairah and aligns with World Turtle Day, observed worldwide on 23rd May 2023. The UAE is home to five out of the seven surviving species of sea turtles, with the hawksbill turtles being the only known species to nest on the west coast consistently. However, until now, there have only been three confirmed instances of nesting along the entire east coast, with none in Fujairah.
Ms. Barbara Lang-Lenton, Director of the DTRP at Jumeirah Group, personally visited the site to assess the situation. The team at Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort has been actively involved in safeguarding the nest and ensuring a successful hatching process, which is expected to occur within the next 50 to 60 days. The specific turtle species will be determined once the baby turtles hatch.
This extraordinary discovery underscores the pressing need for additional conservation measures to protect and promote sea turtle nesting along the UAE coast. The public is strongly encouraged to report any sightings of sea turtles nesting or incidents involving these majestic creatures along the UAE’s shores.
Expressing his delight, DTRP Ambassador Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan bin Khalid Al Qasemi highlighted the significance of the turtle nest in Fujairah and commended the UAE’s commitment to environmental protection, particularly of its oceans. He extended his heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, for their exemplary leadership in ocean conservation. Sheikh Fahim emphasized the collective responsibility to maintain pristine beaches, protect the oceans, and preserve the marine life that calls them home.
The discovery of the sea turtle nest in Fujairah serves as a rallying call to redouble efforts in safeguarding these remarkable creatures and their habitats. It highlights the UAE’s commitment to environmental stewardship and offers hope for the future conservation of sea turtles along its coast.