Sharjah24: Sir Bu Nair Island is recognised as one of the most significant nature reserves in the country because of its significant environmental components, including its geological formations, natural vegetation, and seabirds in addition to coral reefs full of the most uncommon varieties of marine life. The island stands out for its gorgeous surroundings and sandy beaches, where sea turtles have established a nesting colony.
Being one of the most remarkable reserves, Sir Bu Nair Island has received much attention from His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, due to the historical and environmental heritage, taking into consideration its amazing geological formations, natural plants, coral reefs and different living organisms that are among the most notable birds and reptiles of the UAE.
The reserve, which is 4 kilometers long and covers an estimated 13 square kilometers of land, is situated 60 miles to the northwest of Sharjah. Throughout the entire island, the protected area is one nautical mile from the shore.
The reserve comprises distinctive land and sea landmarks, being a safe haven for a number of endangered creatures, including hawksbill turtles and rare green sea turtles, which travel to the island's beaches to lay eggs between the months of March and June each year.
The waters around Sir Bu Nair Island are home to more than 76 species of reef fish and 40 types of coral reefs. It also contains bird colonies like the Socotra Cormorant "Abu Sanin," and thousands of terns that nest on the island, along with deer, hedgehogs, and reptiles.
Since 2000, an annual festival has been organised on Sir Bu Nair Island, attracting divers, heritage aficionados, sea lovers, and marine sports enthusiasts. The festival is also recognised as a significant environmental event, as part of the efforts of Sharjah's Environment and Protected Areas Authority, with the goal of raising environmental awareness and preserving the marine and coastal areas. It is held in conjunction with the annual festival of the Al Gaffal dhow sailing race.
Among the first fishermen, Sir Bu Nair Island was known as "Sir Al-Qawasim," and excavations revealed the presence of artefacts going back to 3500 BC, commonly known as the Iron Age.
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