Muhaimat Island


Site description (2017 baseline):

Site location and context
This offshore site (near Kafai) comprises two large islands and one small island in close proximity to each other.

Key biodiversity
Important island for breeding Osprey in winter and Lesser Crested Tern, Bridled Terns and White-cheeked Terns that breed in summer.

Other biodiversity: Occasional Hawksbill Turtle. Dolphins and Dugongs are regularly seen near the islands.


Habitat and land use
Typical desert in terms of vegetation characteristics.

Pressure/threats to key biodiversity
There is very little disturbance from recreational activities or egg collection.

Conservation responses/actions for key biodiversity
Al Yasat Marine Protected Area.

Protected areas
Al Yasat Marine Protected Area.

Land ownership
The site is part of the private islands of the royal family.

Acknowledgements
Data-sheet compiled by: Shahid Bashir Khan, Dr Salim Javed, Shakeel Ahmed (EAD).


Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Important Bird Area factsheet: Muhaimat Island (United Arab Emirates). Downloaded from https://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/muhaimat-island-iba-united-arab-emirates on 23/12/2024.