What Is Shams
Coral Reefs
Sea Turtles
Our Activities
News & Media

03 November 2024 - 06 November 2024

 

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has outstanding marine biodiversity of international importance that warrants protection. A Royal Decree has put special emphasis on the conservation of sea turtles and their habitats in the Red Sea under the umbrella of SHAMS. This 1st symposium is an auspicious event where SHAMS will launch its conservation program for sea turtles along the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia and build a collaborative network among partner organizations and stakeholders.

With this forward-looking vision we chose the theme for the conference to be:


 “Navigating the Future: Advancing Sea Turtle Conservation in the Red Sea through Science, Collaboration, and Innovation”.

about image

The General Organization for Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in The Red Sea

known as 'SHAMS', was founded by the Saudi government under the Council of Ministers Resolution No. (250) on 04/25/1443 AH. 

Our mission at SHAMS is to coordinate, oversee, and safeguard the coral reefs and turtle nesting habitats in the Red Sea, ensuring their proper stewardship, enhancement, and enduring sustainability. We are also devoted to reviving degraded coral reefs and turtle nesting grounds along the Red Sea shores. At SHAMS, we are dedicated to revitalizing these essential ecosystems and preserving the species that rely on them.

ABOUT US

Coral Reefs

Coral reefs are among the most biodiverse marine ecosystems globally. In the Red Sea, these ecosystems host over 300 coral species and 1000 fish species, many of which are exclusive to these reefs. Additionally, coral reefs provide numerous vital goods and services to the local population, supporting activities such as local fishing and recreational tourism. Their invaluable biological and commercial importance underscores the necessity of protecting them.

Learn more

Sea Turtles

Sea turtles are charismatic animals commonly found in coral reefs and seagrass meadows, where they rest and feed. The Red Sea shores serve as the breeding ground for two of the seven known sea turtle species, both of which are globally endangered. However, these Red Sea turtle populations are poorly understood, highlighting the importance of studying and protecting them, as their health provides a crucial indication of the ecosystem's health.

Learn more

Projects

We are committed to protecting, managing, and sustaining thriving Red Sea coral reef ecosystems and healthy sea turtle populations. To achieve this goal, we are strategically working on a series of projects that focus on establishing baseline assessments and habitat maps to estimate the natural capital of Red Sea reefs in Saudi Arabia and assess the overall status of sea turtle populations. Additionally, we are implementing a holistic restoration approach for degraded reefs and establishing rehabilitation strategies for unhealthy sea turtles.

OUR PARTNERS

We believe in fostering a unified approach that aligns with the goals and visions of diverse stakeholders, from local communities and non-profit sectors to governmental and international bodies.

LATEST NEWS

news image

Saudi Arabia Claims Presidency of the ICRI for Three Years

READ MORE
news image

The General Organization for Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea and Jazan University signed a Memorandum to boost cooperation in research, training, and knowledge exchange. The collaboration aims to enhance expertise and experience in coral reef and turtle conservation in the Red Sea.

READ MORE
news image

The General Organization for Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea Signs MOU with Tabuk University

READ MORE