Red Sea Global, the developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism projects, The Red Sea and Amaala, has released on Monday the findings of one of the world’s largest environmental surveys of wildlife ecosystems conducted by a developer, carried out along 250 kilometers of Red Sea coastline.
The comprehensive study covers natural ecosystems and species across the areas of Red Sea Global’s two flagship destinations – The Red Sea, centered around Al Wajh lagoon, and, slightly north of that area, Amaala. The study was conducted by a dedicated and expert scientific team at Red Sea Global, but has also been supported by partner groups from across the globe to ensure that cutting edge methods and technologies are deployed to monitor critical resources.
For the latest headlines, follow our Google News channel online or via the app. “Throughout our organization, at the heart of everything we do, lies the conviction that responsible development and regenerative tourism are essential in the fight to protect the natural habitats of our world’s precious marine and coastal areas,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global.
“That’s why we’re pioneering the creation of new benchmarks for our industry. We aim to push beyond conservation and explore innovative ways to regenerate the natural ecosystems in which we operate. We’ve set a quantifiable target of achieving a 30 percent net conservation benefit by 2040, and we will continue to publish annual updates that measure our progress toward this ambitious goal. Key to that is setting a baseline from which we track progress, and ensuring we are fully informed and understand the incredible biodiversity that surrounds our developments,” Pagano added.
Key findings
The survey along the Red Sea coast, conducted throughout 2022, revealed that many threatened and endangered species inhabit the area, and have established breeding grounds across it – highlighting the importance of environmental protection and regeneration efforts by Red Sea Global and others in the region.
There are thriving coral reef habitats in The Red Sea and Amaala destination areas. (Supplied)
Seventy-four Hawksbill and 145 Green sea turtle nesting tracks were recorded at Amaala and 251 Hawksbill and 613 Green turtle nesting tracks at The Red Sea. From these numbers we estimate that at Amaala there were around 19 Hawksbill and 40 Green turtle females nesting at Amaala, and 69 Hawksbills and 173 Green turtle females nesting at The Red Sea this year. Given female turtles do not breed every year, the total population of the area would be considerably larger.
Seventeen Sooty falcon breeding pairs were observed at Amaala and 48 breeding pairs in The Red Sea.
There were multiple sightings of critically endangered Halavi guitarfish juveniles at a number of locations in our area, and clear evidence that our area includes important nursery habitats for the species.
There is clear evidence that the Red Sea area includes important nursery habitats for the species. (Supplied)
Sighting in the Amaala area of a pair of Orca (killer whales). This species is a rare visitor to the Red Sea, with fewer than 10 previous reports within the area. The observation at Amaala is by some distance the most northerly sighting we are aware of for this species in the region.
Analysis of the nesting grounds, breeding success of bird species
In Amaala, a total of 2,129 nests were counted of seven species, while at The Red Sea (a much larger area), the second year of island bird populations monitoring revealed more than 25,000 nests of the 11 species we survey.
Two Osprey nests occupied by breeding pairs were found on An Numan, with both pairs having successfully fledged all seven of their chicks by the second visit. Two further nests occupied by breeding pairs were found on Nabgiyah and Awandia.
Although smaller in area than The Red Sea, Amaala marine habitats still contain many impressive reefs, with coral cover averaging 21.5 percent and highest cover at any site being 57.2 percent. (Supplied)
In addition to Osprey, breeding pairs or colonies of six species of birds were discovered on Amaala islands — the most abundant species were Lesser-crested terns and Bridled terns. Though breeding success was variable across The Red Sea, success was estimated for seven species including the Great and Lesser crested tern, Sooty falcon, and the Red-billed tropicbird.
The population status of reef fishes shows an abundance of marine life across Amaala and The Red Sea areas, with some notable endangered species sighted:
Although smaller in area than The Red Sea, Amaala marine habitats still contain many impressive reefs, with coral cover averaging 21.5 percent and highest cover at any site being 57.2 percent.
• 193 fish species were recorded during the 69 Amaala surveys, with the most diverse families being Wrasse (36 species) and Damselfishes (24 species).
• Two endangered reef fish species including the Sky emperor and Humphead wrasse were identified by the Amaala survey team, while four vulnerable species were also spotted: Bumphead parrotfish; Harlequin filefish and two species of coral grouper (Plectropomus areolatus and P. marisrubri).
• Reef sharks were more frequently seen at Amaala (12 of 69 sites) than at The Red Sea (six of 82 sites) this year. All the sharks seen during in-water surveys by the coral reef team this year were white tip reef sharks (Trianodon obesus).
• The resurveys of core monitoring sites at The Red Sea (at 82 of the 280 surveyed for 2021 baseline) showed only small changes in coral cover or fish biomass between years.
Rapid assessment surveys achieved improved understanding of the carbon sequestering potential of seagrasses: • The surveys team conducted seagrass rapid assessment surveys at 250 locations across The Red Sea and Amaala. • Overall, 10 of the 12 seagrass species found in the Red Sea basin have been encountered in The Red Sea area and seven in Amaala. • Larger species such as Enhalus acoroides, Thalassia hemprichii and, especially, Thalassodendron ciliatum, contribute to substrate stabilization and sediment accumulation, and hence to enhanced carbon sequestration. Those species have extended root systems that trap sediment and allow them to withstand wave action in mud substrate.
Moving forward
To build a more detailed picture of the trends identified in the study, the research team has deployed best-in-class technology to continue capturing crucial data on an ongoing basis such as by recording multiple physical, chemical, and biotic variables across the region, alongside remotely-sensed (satellite) data for larger areas.
As part of this study, ongoing monitoring has also been established and put in place. This includes the GPS and satellite tagging of 30 plus Sooty falcons, to better understand their breeding and hunting patterns, as well as the satellite tagging of several recently rehabilitated Hawksbill sea turtles – furthering our understanding of foraging patterns.
“Red Sea Global is an organization led by science, which prioritizes the health and wellbeing of the environments in which it operates. Our incredible team of local and international scientists are testament to the commitment made by the leadership of the group to show tourism can be a force for good and demonstrate meaningful examples of more responsible approaches to the way we develop and operate,” added Dr Omar Al Attas, Head of Environmental Protection and Regeneration, Red Sea Global.
This study not only informs development decisions at Red Sea Global, in order to minimize potential negative impact on the natural ecosystems of the region, but also showcases the latest initiative from the organization in its commitment to prioritizing planet and people. These studies form the initial benchmark for Red Sea Global to measure itself against its stringent commitment to leaving the environment across its destinations a more thriving and naturally healthier place than it was before. Alongside the benefits to Red Sea Global’s sustainable tourism practices, these findings also contribute important insights and data on endangered wildlife species to the global scientific community, aiding worldwide conservation efforts.
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Arabian Saluki Beauty Contest at ADIHEX 2024: A celebration of ancestral elegance
The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) announce the return of the prestigious Arabian Saluki Beauty Contest, a unique initiative aimed at highlighting the significance of purebred hunting dogs and fostering a connection between the new generation and their rich ancestral heritage.
Under the esteemed patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club (EFC), this iconic event is scheduled from 31st August to 8th September, 2024, at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, celebrating the blending of deep Emirati cultural traditions with cutting-edge innovation and technology across 11 diverse sectors.
A highlight of this year’s event is the Arabian Saluki Beauty Contest. One of the world’s oldest and most revered dog breeds, the Arabian Saluki stands as a symbol of wild hunting and desert traditions in the Middle East. Known for its grace, speed, and intelligence, this distinctive breed has been a faithful companion to the Bedouin people for over 5,000 years, serving as both a hunter and guardian. The Saluki’s agility and loyalty have made it an integral part of hunting and racing traditions, especially within the Arabian Peninsula.
The Arabian Saluki Centre was established in Abu Dhabi in 2001 alongside the Emirates Falconers’ Club, marking the first facility of its kind in the Arabian Gulf region and the Middle East, to revive the tradition of desert hunting using Saluki dogs, a cherished aspect of desert heritage.
ADIHEX was the first cultural event in the Arab region to honour the bond between Man and his loyal companion, which has been by our side for thousands of years. The Arabian Saluki Beauty Contest is a unique initiative designed to promote interest in purebred hunting dogs and to strengthen the new generation’s connection to their ancestral heritage and traditions and to serve as a testament to this unique bond.
With its origin steeped in history, this fascinating dog’s name is believed to be derived from the city of Saluk in Yemen or the Bani Saluk tribe. Renowned for its endurance and elegance, the Saluki can reach speeds up to 75 kilometres per hour, maintaining this pace over distances up to almost five kilometres. The breed is cherished for its unique physical characteristics, including a slender body, deep chest, long legs, and two distinct coat types: ‘Al Hoss’ (smooth) and ‘Aryash’ (feathery).
The Arabian Saluki Beauty Contest, held during ADIHEX, is more than a beauty pageant. It celebrates the essence of the Saluki by focusing on the dog’s personality, skills, reflexes, and sensory response. Unlike typical dog competitions, this contest evaluates the Saluki’s breed characteristics, behaviour, overall appearance, structure, hunting skills, and psychological traits. Judging criteria include the dog’s gait, head, eyes, mouth, ears, coat, colour, and general impression.
The Arabian Saluki Beauty Contest is an integral part of ADIHEX’s mission to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the UAE and the wider Arab world. This contest not only showcases the beauty and abilities of the Saluki but also plays a vital role in raising awareness about the importance of preserving traditional hunting practices and the Saluki’s role in them.
This year’s competition will feature four categories: ‘Smooth (Hoss) Males,’ ‘Feathery (Aryash) Males,’ ‘Smooth (Hoss) Females,’ and ‘Feathery (Aryash) Females.’ The event is scheduled to take place during ADIHEX 2024, and, per the rules, participants must ensure their dogs are healthy, microchipped, and vaccinated.
The Saluki’s enduring legacy is celebrated through this competition, which draws participants and spectators from across the region and beyond. It provides a platform for Saluki enthusiasts to connect, share their passion, and celebrate a breed that has remained virtually unchanged for millennia, reflecting the diverse hunting landscapes and traditions of the Middle East.
Aside from the alluring Arabian Saluki Beauty Contest, as the largest edition of ADIHEX to date, the 21st edition will showcase thousands of brands across 11 diverse sectors, offering a dynamic platform for new business opportunities and captivating audiences of all ages. This exhibition celebrates the thrill of an adventurous outdoor lifestyle, allowing visitors to explore falconry, hunting, equestrian sports, veterinary products, fishing and marine sports, environmental preservation, cultural heritage, arts and crafts, and the latest in technology and innovation across all the represented sectors.
Sharjah Ruler directs allocation of beach for women in Khorfakkan’s Al Luluyah area
H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has ordered the allocation of a 500-metre beach for women in Al Luluyah area of Khorfakkan, providing them with complete privacy. The project will include a service building that includes a cafe, a medical clinic and a prayer room for women. His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah also directed the construction of a pedestrian bridge linking Al Bardi 6 and Al Batha areas in Khorfakkan, to facilitate the movement of citizens, and modifications will be implemented on the internal roads in the Hayawa area.