Ras Al Khaimah: In support of World Environment Day on Monday (June 5), Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (TDA) teamed up with Ras Al Khaimah Environment Protection and Development Authority (EPDA) to launch a turtle tagging initiative, in a bid to maintain the conservation of the marine life in the emirate.
Ras Al Khaimah Environment Authority has adopted the tagging system for nearly 20 years, tagging more than 400 turtles.
Dr Saif AlGhais, Executive Director of EPDA said: “The initiative is crucial to the emirate’s conservation efforts and we are dedicated to maintaining the environment’s sustainability through such actions.”
Haitham Mattar, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority said: “Marine life is an important component of Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism and a lot of our visitor attractions including the nearby Al Jazeera Diving and Swimming Center, rely on a rich underwater wildlife. We are committed to the preservation of Ras Al Khaimah’s wildlife and nature, as all as focused on educating residents and visitors on the importance of protecting the endangered species which call Ras Al Khaimah home.”
Monday’s turtle tagging marks a stepping stone in Ras Al Khaimah EPDA and TDA’s commitment to marine conservation with further plans to install satellite tags on the turtles next month, in collaboration with Emirates Wildlife Association.
The environmental initiatives aim to protect the endangered species and educate the general public on the impact the turtles have on the environment and the natural marine food chain.
EPDA staff, TDA staff and members of the public were able to participate in the event and were able to measure and tag 15 green turtles, before releasing them back into the wild.
About Ras Al Khaimah
One of the fastest growing tourism destinations in the world, Ras Al Khaimah is about 45 minutes north of Dubai. It boasts a rich culture and long-standing history, dating back 7,000 years, showcased by an array of archaeological sites and breathtaking natural vistas, from golden sand beaches, awe-inspiring terracotta dunes and a green belt of date palms to Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the UAE.
