Sir Bu Nair Island is located in the southern Arabian Gulf, approximately 110 km west of the Emirate of Sharjah and only 85 km from the northern coast of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Covering an area of around 13 square km, the island surrounded by deep blue waters, and is known by its white sandy beaches and rich biodiversity. The rocky areas of the island are characterized by valleys, rocky hills, and shallow depressions. In the northern and eastern parts, flat rocky areas predominate, while the coastline features flat, sandy, rocky, and steep sections.

The island was declared a protected area in the year 2000 by an Emiri Decree issued by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, with the aim of preserving its unique environment and biodiversity.

Sir Bu Nair Island Landscape
Marine Life

Environmental Significance

Sir Bu Nair Island holds exceptional ecological value, supporting remarkable biodiversity across both marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

Surrounded by vibrant, healthy coral reefs, it hosts approximately 40 coral species and 70 fish species, including several rare species recorded for the first time in the Gulf.
The island provides critical habitat for numerous bird species, such as Sooty Gulls (Larus hemprichii) and other seabirds, and serves as a safe nesting site for endangered marine turtles, including the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), with more than 300 nests recorded annually.
Sir Bu Nair also supports diverse species of sharks and rays, including the threatened Blacktip Reef Shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus), emphasizing its vital role in safeguarding vulnerable marine wildlife. Overall, Sir Bu Nair serves as a cornerstone of biodiversity in the Gulf and a key sanctuary for wildlife conservation.

Historical Significance

Historically, the island has served as a safe refuge for sailors and fishermen navigating the Gulf, as well as a resting point during storms. It also witnessed industrial activity in the past, notably the extraction of iron oxide (hematite) from certain areas, with remnants of the mines and railways still visible today.
Sir Bu Nair Island Landscape
Marine Life

Conservation Efforts and Sustainable Initiatives

A marine turtle monitoring and research program, which monitors turtle nesting activities and behaviour using science-based solutions.

Demonstrate innovative techniques of using micro fragmentation, aiming to rehabilitate reefs and enhance marine biodiversity.

A continuous initiative that involves daily and seasonal campaigns to clear marine debris and plastic waste from the island’s shores. ensuring safe nesting habitats for turtles and seabirds while protecting nearby coral reefs and marine ecosystems.

Enforcement of environmental regulations and visitor awareness programs to ensure ecosystem protection.

Partnerships with research institutions and local stakeholders support biodiversity monitoring, drive sustainability research, and strengthen long-term conservation efforts.

Conservation Efforts
Marine Wildlife Conservation

International Recognitions

2012

Listed on UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List

2013

Designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention

2015

Included in the IOSEA Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation of Marine Turtles and their Habitats

2025

Recognized on the IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas as one of the world’s best-managed protected areas

Sir Bu Nair Festival

Held annually on the island, the Sir Bu Nair Festival blends marine activities with cultural heritage celebrations. Highlights include traditional dhow sailing races that honour the region’s maritime history and cultural performances reflecting ancestral life and their bond with the sea. The festival also raises awareness of the island’s status as a protected area and showcases ongoing efforts to preserve its environment and biodiversity.
Sir Bu Nair Island Landscape
Marine Life