His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has issued an Emiri Decree establishing the “Al Qalqali Marine Reserve” in Khorfakkan, Sharjah.
The decree stipulates the creation of a natural marine reserve named “Al Qalqali Marine Reserve, Khorfakkan,” with its geographical boundaries defined according to the aerial map and layout attached to the decree.
In line with Articles 64, 65, 66 and 67 of Federal Law No. 24 of 1999 on the Protection and Development of the Environment and its amendments, all activities that may harm or degrade the ecosystem, damage wildlife or marine life, or diminish the reserve’s natural beauty are strictly prohibited. Specifically, the decree forbids:
- Hunting, transporting, killing, or harming marine organisms, or undertaking activities that may lead to their destruction, except under regulations set by the competent authority.
- Hunting, transporting, or collecting organisms or organic materials — including rocks, soil or water — for any purpose.
- Introducing non-native species into the reserve.
- Damaging or destroying geological or geographical formations, or the habitats of plants and animals, including their breeding areas.
- Polluting the soil, water or air within the reserve.
- Conducting recreational, entertainment or sports activities that could harm wildlife.
- Constructing buildings, facilities, or roads; operating vehicles; or conducting agricultural, industrial, or commercial activities within the reserve without prior permission from the competent authority, in line with the specified conditions and procedures.
- Engaging in any activity that disrupts the reserve’s natural ecological balance.
The decree further states that all living organisms within the reserve — including birds and other species that use it for resting, nesting or settlement — are fully protected under Federal Law No. 24 of 1999. No activities may be carried out in surrounding areas if they could affect the reserve’s environment, unless authorised by the competent authority.
Without prejudice to penalties outlined in other laws, violators of this decree will be subject to the punishments stipulated in Federal Law No. 24 of 1999. Additionally, aside from Article 6 of the decree, violators must cover all compensation, damage removal costs and any other consequences resulting from the infringement, as determined by the competent authority.
The decree also specifies that the competent authority will manage the reserve and implement all required administrative measures. This includes coordinating with the Municipal Council and relevant municipality to organise management operations, and working with Sharjah Police to monitor and address legal violations. The head of the competent authority will issue the necessary administrative decisions to fulfil these responsibilities.
(Inputs from WAM)
