Sharjah protected area joins IOSEA Marine Turtle MoU

The Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah (EPAA) announced that the AlQurm Protected Area in Kalba City has joined the Indian Ocean's South-East Asian (IOSEA) Marine Turtle memorandum of understanding (MoU).

It is 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 24th to 27th.

Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of EPAA, acknowledged the important role of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, in supporting environmental conservation and biodiversity. His Highness's advocacy was crucial in achieving this milestone. 

Al Suwaidi highlighted EPAA's active participation in global environmental forums and emphasied Sharjah's government support for environmental initiatives.

The AlQurm Protected Area, situated in Khor Kalba on the east coast of the UAE, is renowned for its mangrove forest, the oldest in the region, and its diverse ecosystem that supports over 150 species of birds, 90 species of crustaceans, and 100 species of fish. 

It is a critical habitat for the endangered Arabian Collared Kingfisher and hosts significant gatherings of juvenile marine turtles.

EPAA's efforts include conservation initiatives, education at the Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre, and a rehabilitation center for marine turtles, enhancing biodiversity preservation and environmental education in the region.