Doha: Talking to QNA, Jumaili indicated that scientific research teams record a range of vital indicators, such as nest temperature, egg number, and hatchling weight. They also implement strict protocols prohibiting harm to turtle hatchlings. Field teams accompany the hatchlings upon their release to ensure their safety.
According to Qatar News Agency, the biology consultant at MECC confirmed that the key challenges facing the Ministry in protecting sea turtles are the exposure of eggs and hatchlings to predation by foxes, birds, and other predators; human encroachment and coastal activities that affect nesting sites; coastal erosion resulting from climate change; turtle entanglement in fishing nets or boat accidents; marine pollution, especially plastic waste; and temperature fluctuations and their impact on hatching rates.
On the other hand, Al Jumaili explained that the MECC has a strong scientific partnership with the Environmental Science Center (ESC) at Qatar University and QatarEnergy, where advanced research programs are implemented, including environmental monitoring, genetic studies, labeling, and climate impact studies. She stressed that these efforts contribute to supporting regional databases and enhancing scientific cooperation with Gulf countries in the field of marine biodiversity conservation.
The biology consultant at MECC highlighted that the community plays a pivotal role in protecting turtles. Hundreds of volunteers participate during each nesting season in beach clean-up campaigns, nest monitoring, awareness campaigns, and rehabilitation efforts, alongside teams from the Ministry.
She added that school students and local participants are invited to attend turtle hatchling release events, educational lectures, and awareness sessions, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility among the public. She also explained that the Ministry encourages the public to report sightings of turtles or stranded individuals through the MECC's hotline 16066.
Al Jumaili concluded her remarks to QNA by emphasizing that protecting sea turtles in Qatar is not just an environmental conservation initiative, but rather the protection of a living symbol of Qatar's marine heritage. She stated that every turtle plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem, as hawksbill turtles contribute to the preservation of coral reefs, and green turtles help maintain the health of seagrass beds.
She reaffirmed that by respecting nesting beaches, avoiding disturbance during the breeding season, participating in clean-up campaigns, and reporting sightings, every citizen and visitor can contribute to ensuring that these magnificent creatures continue to thrive on Qatar's coasts and preserving Qatar's natural heritage for future generations.
The MECC announced the conclusion of the 2025 nesting season for hawksbill sea turtles in Qatar, which ran from March 31 to the end of July. The season saw the release of 8,213 hatchlings into their natural habitat. This season saw 219 turtles nest in eight main locations: Fuwairit, Ras Rakan, Ras Laffan, Sharaoua, Umm Tais, Al Ghariya, Al Maroona, and Al Khor.
Last month, the MECC organized an awareness event as part of the conservation project. The event focused on the importance of protecting hawksbill sea turtles and highlighted the environmental role of the Fuwairit Reserve, which accounts for approximately 90% of turtle nesting sites in Qatar, making it a critical area for the conservation of this species.
The event included direct interaction with environmental teams, introducing participants to environmental monitoring and follow-up mechanisms, field demonstrations of nest relocation methods, and awareness programs for school students and visitors.
According to marine life experts, the protection of sea turtles in Qatar represents an advanced model for balancing development and environmental protection, and reflects the country's commitment to protecting its natural resources and biodiversity.