Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — In a significant step toward safeguarding its marine treasures, Saudi Arabia is launching a groundbreaking project to assess the health of its vital ecosystems in the Arabian Gulf.

Led by the National Center for Wildlife (NCW), the project aims to create a comprehensive roadmap for protecting marine biodiversity and ensuring the long-term health of the Gulf waters.

NCW's CEO Dr. Mohammed Qurban said in a statement that scientists will evaluate the condition of the coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and mangrove forests. They will identify both natural and human-caused threats to these habitats and develop strategies to mitigate these risks. Ultimately, the project will use the collected data to design a management plan for the conservation and restoration of the coastal ecosystems.

Qurban said that the vast Saudi waters in the Arabian Gulf, spanning over 27,000 square kilometers, are a haven for a diverse array of marine life, all supported by the rich ecosystems of the Gulf. The project will ensure that these vital habitats continue to thrive for generations to come.