MUSCAT, JUNE 14
Oman’s beaches continue to play a vital role in global marine conservation, serving as key nesting grounds for five of the world’s seven known sea turtle species, including several that are endangered.
While Ras Al Jinz and Ras Al Hadd remain internationally recognised turtle nesting destinations, Masirah Island has quietly welcomed nesting turtles since February, with the arrival of loggerhead turtles now marking the peak of the season.
Masirah Island hosts four species of sea turtles, each following distinct nesting periods. Olive ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) and hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) typically nest between February and May, while loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta), locally known as Al Raymani, arrive from May to September. Green turtles (Chelonia mydas) usually nest between July and November.
Internationally renowned for its loggerhead turtle population, Masirah Island is considered one of the world’s most important nesting sites for the species and supports one of the largest loggerhead nesting aggregations globally, making it a critical conservation area for marine biodiversity.
According to Ghazi al Farsi, Environmental Systems Supervisor at the Environment Authority in Masirah, weather conditions during the nesting season are unique.
“The weather is exceptional during July and August, especially between July 15 and August 20. It resembles monsoon conditions, while currently the weather is cloudy and windy,” Al Farsi said.
His work includes morning surveys to monitor turtle nests along nesting beaches and evening activities focused on turtle tagging and identification. Conservation efforts also include protecting nesting grounds and raising environmental awareness among local communities and visitors.
However, marine activity and human interference continue to pose challenges.
“Although the area is not currently protected under a site-specific legal framework, national environmental legislation provides protection for sea turtles, their nests and eggs,” Al Farzi explained. “This remains a significant conservation challenge, requiring continuous awareness efforts and direct engagement with visitors to minimise disturbances to nesting activities.”
To strengthen conservation efforts, the Environment Authority plans to install educational signs and launch awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging greater public responsibility in protecting turtles and their nesting habitats.
Under Omani law, sea turtles, their nests and eggs are fully protected, and any disturbance, damage or tampering constitutes a legal violation subject to strict penalties.
Masirah’s beaches continue to provide an ideal breeding environment, supporting biodiversity and maintaining marine ecological balance while reinforcing Oman’s role in global sea turtle conservation.
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