Overview
The Ras al Hadd Turtle Reserve is one of the most significant sea turtle nesting sites in the world, located on the easternmost point of the Arabian Peninsula where the Gulf of Oman meets the Arabian Sea. The reserve protects critical nesting beaches for the endangered green turtle, with thousands of females returning annually to lay their eggs on the same beaches where they hatched. The reserve encompasses the beaches at Ras al Hadd and nearby Ras al Jinz, which together form the most important nesting aggregation for green turtles in the Indian Ocean region. Managed by the Environment Authority, the reserve balances conservation objectives with controlled eco-tourism that allows visitors to witness the remarkable nesting and hatching process.
Key Facts
- Located at the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula
- One of the most important green turtle nesting sites globally
- Thousands of green turtles nest annually on the protected beaches
- Managed by the Environment Authority with strict visitor controls
- Ras al Jinz Turtle Centre provides educational visitor facilities
- Night-time guided tours allow viewing of nesting and hatching
- Research programmes monitor population health and nesting success
Significance for Vision 2040
The Ras al Hadd Turtle Reserve demonstrates Vision 2040’s commitment to environmental sustainability alongside economic development. The reserve’s eco-tourism model generates revenue and employment for local communities while maintaining strict conservation standards that protect an endangered species. Vision 2040 recognizes that Oman’s natural heritage is both an intrinsic value to be preserved and an economic asset that can attract high-value tourism. The turtle reserve has become an iconic Omani tourism product featured in international travel media, enhancing the country’s reputation as a responsible and nature-rich destination. The scientific research conducted at the reserve contributes to global conservation knowledge and positions Oman as a leader in marine biodiversity protection within the Gulf region.