Sea Turtles in Kuwait

Spend enough time on the water and you will see them — sea turtles swimming near the shore or basking at the surface. They are among the oldest creatures in the sea, and they are more common in Kuwaiti waters than you might think.

Sea Turtle Species in Kuwait

• Green turtle — the most common in the Gulf, feeding on seagrass beds.
• Hawksbill turtle — smaller with a hawk-like beak, and quite rare.
• Loggerhead turtle — occasionally seen near the islands; it is a migratory species.

Where to See Them in Kuwait

Most sightings happen near islands such as Failaka and Qaruh, and in areas with seagrass. Turtles sometimes raise their heads above water to breathe — if you see one, do not be afraid. They are completely harmless.

Why Protecting Them Matters

Sea turtles are threatened worldwide, and in the Gulf they face drifting nets and pollution. Every turtle supports the balance of the marine environment, and protecting them means a healthier sea for all of us.

What to Do If You Encounter One

• Do not chase or touch it — stress harms it.
• Keep your distance, especially when it is breathing at the surface.
• If one gets tangled in your net, free it carefully and slowly.
• If you find an injured or dead turtle on the beach, report it to the authorities.

Before choosing your trip location, the B7R app gives you sea conditions and tide data for Shuwaikh and Shuwaiba ports — so you can pick a time to observe marine life safely.

Kuwait's sea is home to these creatures, and we are all responsible for it. A turtle today means a living sea tomorrow.

Download the B7R app and enjoy your trips with peace of mind — the sea is a trust, and we preserve it for us and future generations.

Myths About Sea Turtles

There is a lot of talk about sea turtles, and some of it is wrong. Some people believe turtles live a hundred years, but in reality their lifespan varies by species — around 40 to 60 years for many. Others picture them as slow and weak, yet sea turtles swim enormous distances and migrate between countries.

Turtles and Fishermen

Kuwaiti fishermen play a big role in turtle conservation. If a turtle gets caught in your net, cut the mesh around it instead of pulling hard — this reduces its injuries. If you see a turtle nesting on the beach during the season, do not approach or disturb it, and keep dogs away.

Turtles are part of our maritime heritage, and any fisherman who sees one knows the sea is healthy. Their presence means a balanced marine environment; their absence is a warning for everyone.