Fujairah's Coral Reefs in Peril

Marine Violations Endanger Coral Reefs Near Fujairah

The marine ecosystem of the Emirate of Fujairah, located on the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates, is especially sensitive to environmental harm. According to the latest reports, the Fujairah Environment Authority has uncovered several violations that pose a direct threat to coral reefs and marine life at the coastal dive sites of the emirate.

Abandoned Fishing Nets and Broken Corals

During inspections, experts from the authority discovered traces of illegal fishing activities, which have left abandoned nets on the seabed. These nets pose a direct threat not only to sea turtles and fish but also damage the structure of coral reefs in the long term. Additionally, they observed the lowering of traditional anchors in areas that are particularly rich in coral populations. Such anchors can cause severe physical damage to the reefs, breaking or permanently destroying parts of them.

Ignoring Designated Buoys

The authority emphasized that designated anchoring buoys are available in endangered marine zones to prevent direct seabed damage. Nonetheless, many continue to ignore these options, thereby increasing environmental damages.

Unauthorised Diving in Protected Zones

There is also concern over several recorded illegal dives in marine protected areas, violating existing federal and local environmental regulations. Diving at these sites is exclusively permitted for observing wildlife, scientific research, or experimental purposes under controlled conditions and is conducted in collaboration with the ministry, research institutes, and the Emirates Diving Association.

Strict Regulation in Marine Conservation Areas

At Fujairah's coastline, especially around Dibba Al-Fujairah, all fishing activities and activities leading to the pollution or damage of coral reefs are prohibited in the marine reserves. The use of jet skis or any diving that does not serve a permitted purpose is also not allowed. According to the environmental authority, all divers must request prior valid permission if they wish to dive in a protected zone.

Responsibility and Safety

The authority highlighted that it does not take responsibility for individual dives conducted below 9 meters in depth. It also stressed the prohibition of contacting protected marine species, especially mollusks and poisonous fish, which can be dangerous upon contact. To avoid shark attacks, it is recommended that divers steer clear of areas indicating the presence of predators.

Reporting Obligations and Social Responsibility

The authority stresses that all marine service providers and hobby divers are obligated to adhere to the rules and report any event indicating marine pollution or wildlife damage. Such incidents can be reported via the toll-free number 800368.

Summary

The violations observed along the Fujairah coasts highlight that much remains to be done to ensure sustainable marine tourism and the protection of marine ecosystems. Proper information, adherence to rules, and social responsibility are essential to preserve these unique natural treasures for future generations.

(The source of the article is a statement from the Emirate Environment Authority.)