UAE: AlQurm Protected Area in Khor Kalba joins IOSEA Marine Turtle MoU

This makes it the second site in Sharjah after Sir Bu Nair Island Reserve, as the UAE participates in the ninth meeting of the signatory countries of the memorandum held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania from June 24 to 27.

The meeting showcased the Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority role in environmental conservation and biodiversity, emphasising its commitment to protecting various species, particularly marine turtles.

It highlighted the leading experience of the AlQurm Protected Area in Khor Kalba on the east coast of the UAE in the meeting. The joining of the memorandum acknowledges the achievements and sustainable efforts of the AlQurm Protected Area in Khor Kalba.

In this context, Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority, expressed her thanks and appreciation to Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for his role as the primary supporter of the environment and the leading advocate for preserving biodiversity and protecting natural life in its various forms and domains.

His support and efforts were instrumental in achieving this new milestone for the emirate of Sharjah.

Al Suwaidi emphasised the EPAA's keenness to represent the Emirate of Sharjah in such prominent environmental meetings on a global level, introducing the innovative steps and significant achievements made in this regard.

She added that the Sharjah Government provides constant care and attention to the efforts of the EPAA in ensuring the success of the environmental goals it works towards.

She reported that the AlQurm Protected Area site serves as a comprehensive centre for research, education, and conservation initiatives. Official classification of the area as part of the IOSEA network of sites will enhance conservation efforts in several ways.

It serves as a tangible guide for policymakers on the environmental value of the site, which was also designated as a Wetland of International Importance listed under the Ramsar Convention in 2013 (Ramsar Site).

Al Suwaidi emphasised that the AlQurm Protected Area in Khor Kalba stands out as the sole habitat of mangrove trees on the coast of the Gulf of Oman in the UAE and the oldest mangrove tree forest in the region, hosting the critically endangered bird the Arabian Collared Kingfisher which is found only in this area of the world.

It houses the largest gatherings of juvenile marine turtles on the east coast of the UAE where they can find their nourishment. The EPAA works to protect these marine turtles from threats through the Sharjah Strandings Response Program.

In addition, it is considered an ideal location for feeding and nesting for over 150 species of local and migratory birds, over 90 species of crustaceans, and 100 species of fish.

The Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre within the reserve serves as a comprehensive educational centre to educate the public about the habitats of mangrove trees and emphasise the importance of their conservation. It is also the only centre for the rehabilitation of marine turtles on the east coast of the UAE. (ANI/WAM)