The release of 76 turtles at Saadiyat Beach accompanies the network’s launch.
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has launched the Abu Dhabi Wildlife Response Network to coordinate reports, interventions and animal care with partners and the community. Its announcement was published on 17 October 2026.
The launch was accompanied by the release of 76 hawksbill and green sea turtles at Saadiyat Beach following treatment and rehabilitation, according to EAD. The agency said its joint efforts with partners had returned more than 1,500 turtles to Abu Dhabi’s waters over several years.
From reporting to rehabilitation
Cases are recorded and assessed before a specialist team intervenes, stabilising the animal if necessary and transferring it for veterinary care. Release follows recovery, while animals needing further attention remain in care.
Experience predating the network
Field work has an earlier history: the joint rescue programme with The National Aquarium began in August 2020. In 2023, EAD explained that some released turtles carried tracking devices, while a rehabilitation area in the waters around Louvre Abu Dhabi provided care before release.
Protecting animals and their habitat
EAD lists abandoned fishing nets, marine debris, pollution and coastal development among the threats to green turtles, alongside the importance of avoiding boat strikes. Protecting waters and beaches therefore remains complementary to animal rescue.
At Saadiyat, the Emirates Nature-WWF guide asks visitors to keep a safe distance from marine wildlife and avoid feeding it. It lists 800-555 for reporting sightings, strandings and pollution, and [email protected] as the rescue network’s email address.
Sources: EAD: network announcement, 17 October 2026؛ EAD: release of 76 turtles, 17 October 2026؛ Emirates News Agency: how the network works, 17 October 2026؛ EAD: rehabilitation programme background, 16 June 2023؛ EAD: Green Turtle؛ The Shallow Wonders of Saadiyat Marine National Park, 2025, pp. 49–51
Image source: Emirates News Agency (WAM).
