Al Saadiyat Marine

Saadiyat Marine National Park is an eco-reserve of 59 km2 of sea off Saadiyat Island, next to Abu Dhabi city, home to bottlenose dolphins, hawksbill turtles and other species^[1].

The Indian Ocean humpback dolphin lives here, and Abu Dhabi is said to hold the world's largest population of the species; bottlenose dolphins also live around the island. The hawksbill turtle is listed as Critically Endangered, and green turtles and sea snakes also occur^[1]. Hawksbill nesting season in the UAE runs from March to June^[1].

The shallow waters and shore around the island are typical of the southern Arabian Gulf coast.

Saadiyat is a low, sandy barrier island formed by wind and sea deposits, lying just off the Abu Dhabi coast.

The climate is hot and humid, with very hot summers, mild winters and little rain.

Saadiyat Island lies just off the Abu Dhabi coast and has recently been developed as a cultural and residential district.

The marine park protects the waters off Saadiyat Island and is managed by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi.

Only non-motorised activities such as diving, snorkelling, fishing and kayaking are permitted; the draw is watching dolphins and turtles^[1].

The park is about 10 km from central Abu Dhabi, reached via Saadiyat Island, whose public beaches are the usual access to the water.

Threats to the dolphins include abandoned fishing nets and coastal development^[1]. Motorised activities are not allowed in the park.