Saudi Arabia Announces Discovery of Largest Sea Turtle Nesting Site in Red Sea

Saudi Arabia, represented by the General Organization for the Conservation of Coral Reefs and Marine Turtles in the Red Sea (SHAMS), announced the discovery of the largest sea turtle nesting site in Saudi waters, located at the Four Sisters Islands in the Red Sea.

In a statement on Saturday, SHAMS said this significant environmental discovery is part of ongoing initiatives aimed at boosting protection for sea turtles and their habitats in the Red Sea, ensuring their sustainability in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

On this occasion, CEO of SHAMS Dr. Khaled Isfahani confirmed that the Four Sisters Islands have been designated as a species management area to protect the turtles' nesting habitats. This step aligns with environmental goals and contributes to safeguarding biodiversity. These efforts are part of a broader plan to turn 30 percent of Saudi Arabia's land and sea areas into nature reserves by 2030.

The Four Sisters Islands—Marmar, Dahreb, Malathu, and Jadir—are renowned for their high concentration of sea turtle nesting sites. (SPA)

The Four Sisters Islands—Marmar, Dahreb, Malathu, and Jadir—are renowned for their high concentration of sea turtle nesting sites. To date, over 2,500 turtle nests have been recorded on these islands, establishing them as a crucial breeding ground for endangered sea turtles in the Red Sea.

Remarkably, the sea turtles consistently return to these same nesting sites each year, underscoring the vital need to preserve these areas for the survival of these species. Furthermore, the islands host an exceptional number of endangered green turtles and critically endangered hawksbill turtles, making them some of the most significant sea turtle nesting sites in the region.

Isfahani said the organization is currently developing a comprehensive management strategy to safeguard sea turtle nesting sites along the Red Sea coast. Thanks to the diligent work of SHAMS' environmental expert teams, over 180 nesting sites have been identified.

This discovery is part of SHAMS' mission to protect the unique marine life in the Red Sea. (SPA)

The plan also aims to boost sustainable tourism and entertainment opportunities around this unique marine ecosystem, he added. This initiative helps enrich the protected area and ensures that sea turtles continue to thrive in their natural habitats, promoting environmental sustainability.

This discovery is part of SHAMS' mission to protect the unique marine life in the Red Sea. Sea turtles play a crucial role in the ecosystem, making their survival vital for maintaining environmental balance. The effort aligns with the Saudi Green Initiative and Vision 2030, reflecting a national commitment to safeguarding Saudi Arabia's natural heritage and marine biodiversity.

The Saudi Northern Borders region, renowned for its diverse desert landscape, is witnessing the resurgence of the Diplotaxis, a vibrant yellow-flowered species that had become increasingly rare.
This resurgence is attributed to continuous conservation efforts, including the establishment of wildlife reserves and the implementation of stricter environmental protection laws, according to SPA.
Diplotaxis is an annual plant in the Northern Boreders region, typically reaching half a meter in height. Its hairy leaves, an adaptation to the harsh desert climate, help retain moisture. The plant thrives in gravelly soils and blooms in spring with fragrant yellow flowers.
Aman Environmental Association Board of Directors Chairman Nasser Al-Majlad told SPA that the early rainfall this year fostered the growth of numerous plant species, including Diplotaxis, which had been absent from the area for several years.
The Northern Borders region boasts a rich variety of plant life, including aromatic, seasonal, and annual species.

This diverse flora plays a crucial role in combating desertification, stabilizing soil, increasing biodiversity, and enhancing the region's environmental health. Moreover, it contributes to the region's tourism appeal.

Saudi Arabia Announces Discovery of Largest Sea Turtle Nesting Site in Red Sea