In a landmark achievement for marine conservation, officials in Abu Dhabi have confirmed the first-ever nesting of an Olive Ridley turtle on Saadiyat Island. Discovered during a routine patrol by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), this finding marks the third marine turtle species known to nest within the emirate’s waters, alongside the more common Hawksbill and the recently recorded Green turtle. To ensure the accuracy of this rare sighting, researchers utilized DNA barcoding in partnership with Khalifa University, which confirmed a 99 percent genetic match for the species.

The nest, identified in March 2026, contained 109 eggs, with 40 hatchlings successfully reaching the sea by late May. While this represents a modest success rate, environmental experts view it as a crucial baseline for future ecological monitoring, especially since the site sits at the edge of the species' typical geographic range. As indicator species, the presence of Olive Ridley turtles is a positive sign of the health of Abu Dhabi’s marine ecosystems. This discovery not only underscores the success of the EAD’s decades-long conservation efforts but also highlights the vital role these creatures play in maintaining the balance of local coral reefs and seagrass habitats.