Juraid Island


Juraid Island is a Saudi Arabian island located in the Persian Gulf, approximately northeast of the city of Jubail. The low-lying, sandy island spans approximately and is characterized by its rich biodiversity, featuring coral reefs, diverse marine life, and significant bird populations. The island is surrounded by extensive coral reefs that extend more than a quarter of a mile into the Gulf. These reef systems are primarily composed of brain coral and Acropora palmata, creating intricate mazes of canyons, tunnels, and plateaus that support a diverse marine ecosystem. The island's location is near "THE RIG," an adventure tourism project announced in 2021.

Wildlife

Marine Life

The coral reefs support numerous fish species, including Arabian angelfish, butterfly fish, and parrot fish, which display vibrant colors ranging from yellows and pinks to greens and blacks. The reefs also harbor more dangerous species such as the zebra fish, moray eels, and various species of sharks, including the hammerhead shark.
The island is a significant nesting ground for green sea turtles, which visit the island during their breeding season from June to October. Female turtles, weighing up to 300 pounds, come ashore at night to lay between 75 and 100 eggs in carefully constructed nests. The hatching period occurs between August and late November, though many hatchlings face predation from both terrestrial and marine predators.

Birds

The island serves as an important habitat for various bird species, with three distinct tern species maintaining separate territories:
The Hoopoe, locally known as "hud-hud," is also occasionally observed on the island and is considered a good omen in Arab culture.