The Fujairah Environment Authority has urged the public to immediately report any sightings of nesting turtles, hatchlings, or crawl tracks, along with precise location details.
Fujairah authorities have issued public guidelines to protect sea turtles during the peak nesting season, which runs from March to June. Beachgoers and residents are advised to avoid disturbing nesting areas and to report any sightings immediately.
The Fujairah Environment Authority said the advisory comes as conservation teams increase monitoring along the emirate’s coastline following the discovery of three active nesting sites near the Al Fqait Protected Area and along the shore near the Royal Beach Hotel and Resort in Dibba.
What beachgoers should do when they spot nesting turtles:
- Observe sea turtles from a distance without approaching or disturbing them.
- Use low-level lighting to avoid disrupting the turtles.
- Ensure no waste is left behind on beaches, especially plastic bags.
What beachgoers should avoid:
- Do not touch sea turtles or their hatchlings.
- Do not use bright lights or camera flashes while observing them.
- Do not use nesting beaches during the breeding season.
- Do not place equipment on beaches at night.
- Do not camp or light fires on beaches during nesting season.
- Avoid noise and other nighttime activities along the shore.
How UAE residents can help:
The authority is encouraging the public to report any sightings of nesting turtles, hatchlings, or crawl tracks immediately, including precise location details or coordinates. Reports can be made via email at info@fea.gov.ae or through hotlines such as 09 201 6333, 800 368, and the toll-free turtle hotline 800 887853 (800TURTLE).
These numbers are dedicated to reporting cases of sick sea turtles, nesting sites, or sightings of turtle crawl tracks along beaches.
Authorities will then guide callers to specialised teams, which will ensure the timely rescue and assistance of the turtles.
