MUSCAT: As the world marks World Turtle Day on May 23, the Sultanate of Oman is shining a spotlight on one of its most treasured natural assets — sea turtles — reaffirming efforts to protect nesting habitats that rank among the most important globally.
Home to four of the world’s seven marine turtle species, Oman has emerged as a regional conservation success story, with iconic nesting grounds such as Ras Al Jinz, Masirah Island and the Daymaniyat Islands playing a pivotal role in sustaining global turtle populations.
Among Oman’s standout environmental treasures is Masirah Island, where an estimated 30,000 loggerhead turtles nest annually, making it one of the largest nesting sites of its kind in the world. Meanwhile, Ras Al Jinz remains internationally renowned as a major nesting site for endangered green turtles, attracting eco-tourists and researchers alike.
The Environment Authority, which leads the country’s turtle conservation efforts, says protecting nesting beaches remains a top priority amidst growing environmental challenges such as climate change, beach erosion, plastic pollution and urban expansion.
Engineer Ahmed bin Said al Shukaili, Director of the Marine Environment Department at the Environment Authority, said annual field surveys are conducted across major nesting areas in Dhofar, Al Wusta, Muscat, Al Sharqiyah South and Al Batinah South Governorates to monitor turtle populations and nesting success.
“These surveys provide an accurate scientific database that supports protection plans and sustainable management of marine biodiversity”, he said, noting that recent monitoring has shown increases in nesting activity and hatchling numbers in Ras Al Jinz, Daymaniyat Islands and Masirah.
Conservation teams monitor beaches during nesting seasons, tag turtles, record biological data and use satellite tracking to better understand migration routes and marine behaviour. Authorities also work with volunteers and local communities through awareness campaigns, beach clean-ups and monitoring programmes.
However, experts warn that environmental pressures are reshaping turtle behaviour. Increased coastal noise and light pollution have gradually pushed some loggerhead turtles on Masirah Island toward quieter southern beaches.
Engineer Aida bint Khalaf al Jabri, marine environment specialist at the Environment Authority, said Oman is stepping up protection measures, including a 2027 project to construct a two-kilometre natural barrier on Masirah Island to regulate vehicle movement and visitor access near nesting zones.
The initiative also includes measures to reduce fishing-related threats and improve beach cleanliness to protect turtles and marine ecosystems.
As Oman joins global celebrations for World Turtle Day, the message is clear: preserving sea turtles is not only about protecting a species, but safeguarding a vital part of the nation’s natural heritage for generations to come. — ONA
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