Seasonal Shark Activity Observed Off Kuwait Coast, Officials Urge Caution

31/05/2026

KUWAIT CITY, May 31: The Environment Public Authority (EPA) confirmed on Sunday that it is monitoring the appearance of a shark near the Bnaider coastal area, describing its presence in Kuwaiti territorial waters during this period as a natural seasonal occurrence.

EPA spokesperson and Director of Public Relations and Media Sheikha Al-Ibrahim told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that technical teams had reviewed a video circulating on social media showing the shark near Bnaider and are actively monitoring the situation.

She said the species is likely a Blacktip shark, which typically appears seasonally in Kuwaiti waters during May and June due to increased food availability and fish breeding activity, drawing marine life closer to coastal areas such as Bnaider, the Zour Bridge, and the vicinity of the Zour refinery.

Al-Ibrahim noted that the presence of sharks during this period is a natural and recurring phenomenon linked to environmental conditions, adding that it is also an indicator of improving marine ecosystem health and biodiversity in Kuwait’s waters.

She added that the appearance of this species, not commonly recorded in recent years, reflects ongoing improvements in marine environmental quality and habitat conditions for various marine organisms.

The authority confirmed it will continue monitoring marine wildlife in coordination with relevant agencies to ensure environmental safety, while urging sea users to exercise caution, follow safety guidelines, and avoid approaching or interacting with large marine creatures.

It also called on the public to report similar sightings to the relevant authorities and stressed the importance of refraining from hunting or harming marine species, emphasizing that they play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance.

EPA concluded that protecting the marine environment is a shared responsibility that supports the sustainability of natural resources for future generations.