Saudi Arabia’s General Organization for the Conservation of Coral Reefs and Marine Turtles in the Red Sea (SHAMS) has made a groundbreaking discovery—the largest sea turtle nesting site in Saudi waters at the Four Sisters Islands in the Red Sea. This finding is part of ongoing efforts to protect sea turtles and their habitats, in alignment with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The CEO of SHAMS, Dr. Khaled Isfahani, emphasized the importance of designating the Four Sisters Islands as a species management area to safeguard the turtles’ nesting habitats. This initiative contributes to biodiversity conservation and supports the broader plan to convert 30% of Saudi Arabia’s land and sea areas into nature reserves by 2030.
The Four Sisters Islands—Marmar, Dahreb, Malathu, and Jadir—are recognized for their significant number of sea turtle nesting sites. Over 2,500 turtle nests have been documented on these islands, establishing them as critical breeding grounds for endangered sea turtles in the Red Sea. The consistent return of sea turtles to these nesting sites underscores the necessity of preserving these areas for the survival of these species. Additionally, the islands harbor a substantial population of endangered green turtles and critically endangered hawksbill turtles, making them some of the most significant sea turtle nesting sites in the region.
In response to this discovery, SHAMS is developing a comprehensive management strategy to protect sea turtle nesting sites along the Red Sea coast. With over 180 nesting sites identified by SHAMS’ environmental expert teams, the organization aims to enhance sustainable tourism and entertainment opportunities around this unique marine ecosystem. By enriching the protected area, this initiative ensures the continued thriving of sea turtles in their natural habitats, promoting environmental sustainability and conservation in the region.
The conservation efforts led by SHAMS are part of a broader mission to safeguard marine life in the Red Sea. Sea turtles are integral to the ecosystem, highlighting the urgency of their protection for environmental balance. This commitment aligns with the Saudi Green Initiative and Vision 2030, demonstrating Saudi Arabia’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage and marine biodiversity. This groundbreaking discovery at the Four Sisters Islands emphasizes the importance of proactive conservation measures to ensure the long-term survival of sea turtles and their habitats in Saudi waters.
