Rare Loggerhead Turtle Rescue in Dubai Suggests Potential Nesting in UAE Waters: A Conservation Milestone

A rare juvenile loggerhead turtle was rescued in Dubai, marking a significant find as this species isn't known to nest in the Arabian Gulf. The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP) estimates the turtle to be 7-9 months old, discovered in the Jebel Ali Marine Protected Area. Experts believe this indicates possible undocumented nesting activity in UAE waters. This discovery follows the first documented green turtle nest in Abu Dhabi in 2024, highlighting the need for further research on sea turtle populations in the Gulf. The rescued turtle is receiving care at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab's Aquarium before its release. Since January 2025, DTRP has rescued 103 turtles, mainly young hawksbills. The public is urged to report stranded turtles to the DTRP hotline at 800 TURTLE (800 887853).