Saudi Arabia has achieved significant milestones in environmental protection, with Saudi Arabia’s marine and coastal health showing strong resilience across its eastern coast. The National Center for Wildlife recently completed a comprehensive assessment covering more than 400 sites, offering a detailed overview of coral reefs, seagrass meadows, mangroves, and mudflats. The results highlight the kingdom’s commitment to biodiversity, sustainability, and scientific research.
The assessment, conducted throughout 2024 and 2025, employed internationally recognized methodologies, including underwater imaging and satellite remote sensing. This approach created a precise scientific database, helping experts monitor ecosystems effectively. As a result, officials can track the health of marine and coastal environments and guide future conservation initiatives.
Researchers found that coral reefs maintained a healthy cover rate of 22%, with bleaching levels below 2%. Dominant species such as Porites and Merulina demonstrated remarkable resilience to harsh environmental conditions. Additionally, seagrass meadows remained stable in most areas, providing essential habitats for fish and other marine life.
Mangrove forests covered an estimated 1,573 hectares, particularly around Ras Tanura and Tarout Island, showing strong vegetation and thriving ecosystems. The assessment also recorded over 80,000 fish from 90 species. Large marine animals, including dugongs, dolphins, turtles, sharks, and rays, were observed, confirming the Arabian Gulf’s critical role as a major habitat.
Bird populations were equally promising. Experts observed 176,836 birds from 69 species, with the highest numbers during fall migration. Notably, Franklin’s gull was spotted for the first time in Saudi Arabia, while Tarout Bay and Dammam Corniche emerged as important breeding and aggregation sites.
The National Center for Wildlife emphasized that the findings support Saudi Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative. Protecting marine environments strengthens biodiversity, climate stability, and food security, officials explained. The data also provides essential guidance for national conservation policies and sustainable development projects.
Moving forward, Saudi Arabia plans to expand monitoring programs and enhance protective measures for its eastern coastal ecosystems. These steps aim to safeguard marine life, promote sustainable use of resources, and maintain the kingdom’s leadership in environmental stewardship.
Overall, the assessment confirms that Saudi Arabia’s marine and coastal health remains robust, offering a solid foundation for future conservation. The findings encourage continued investment in scientific research and highlight the kingdom’s proactive approach to sustainable development. Protecting these ecosystems ensures long-term ecological balance and supports Saudi Arabia’s environmental ambitions.
