Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi Records First Olive Ridley Turtle Nest in Emirate
UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM – 20th Aug, 2026
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has recorded the first-ever nesting of an Olive Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) in the emirate, marking a significant milestone for marine biodiversity in Abu Dhabi. Discovered on Saadiyat Island, the nest represents a rare and exceptional occurrence. While Abu Dhabi’s mainland coast and offshore islands are primarily recognized as nesting grounds for Hawksbill turtles, with the first confirmed Green turtle nest recorded as recently as 2023, this discovery adds another remarkable species: the Olive Ridley.
The species was confirmed through DNA barcoding undertaken in partnership with Khalifa University.
Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, expressed her joy:
"The first recorded nesting of an Olive Ridley turtle in Abu Dhabi is a landmark moment for marine biodiversity in the emirate. It reflects the health of our waters, the resilience of our ecosystems, and the sustained impact of Abu Dhabi’s long-term commitment to conservation."
She continued, emphasizing the importance of scientific discoveries:
"Scientific discoveries such as this demonstrate that evidence-based conservation delivers results. They strengthen our understanding of the species that depend on our coastal habitats and affirm our responsibility to protect them, for the ecosystems they sustain and for the generations that will inherit them."
The nest was discovered during a routine monitoring patrol by volunteers from EAD’s Saadiyat Turtle Patrol. They monitored it closely throughout the incubation period using a solar-powered camera, intensifying patrols as the expected hatching date approached.
The turtle nested on March 29, 2026, laying 109 eggs. Hatchlings emerged on May 25, 2026, with 40 successfully reaching the sea, representing a hatching success rate of about 37 percent.
As the first recorded Olive Ridley nesting in Abu Dhabi and an occurrence at the edge of the species’ known nesting range, some variability in reproductive outcome is to be expected. Nevertheless, the successful emergence confirms that local conditions were sufficient to support the completion of the full reproductive cycle and provides an important baseline for future monitoring and conservation planning.
