Mangrove Project Restores Kuwait’s Coastal Ecosystems

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 17, 2026

Kuwait’s Environment Public Authority is advancing a mangrove restoration project aimed at reviving coastal ecosystems and improving biodiversity through cultivation at Jahra Nature Reserve. The initiative, supported by Gulf Cooperation Council countries, has demonstrated ecological benefits and seeks regional expansion, including establishing a marine nursery in collaboration with Saudi Arabia.

Kuwait’s Environment Public Authority (EPA) has underscored its ongoing efforts to restore coastal ecosystems through a mangrove cultivation project aimed at enhancing biodiversity and bolstering climate change adaptation. The initiative was highlighted during a workshop held as part of Oman Climate Week 2026 in Muscat, organized in cooperation with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA).

Senior Biologist Asma Al-Haddad of the EPA’s Biodiversity Conservation Department detailed the project, which has been active since 2018 with support from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The programme focuses on growing black mangrove (Avicennia marina) seedlings, with seeds sourced from various Gulf states, including Oman. These are cultivated at the Jahra Nature Reserve, which offers favorable conditions for mangrove growth and reproduction.

According to Al-Haddad, mangroves once existed historically in Kuwait’s coastal areas such as Khuwaisat but disappeared by the mid-20th century. The current restoration project seeks to re-establish these ecosystems to improve ecological balance and biodiversity. Positive outcomes have been observed, as the presence of mangroves has encouraged the return of several species, including crustaceans and nesting birds. The mangroves also provide natural barriers against dust and wave action, while stabilizing soil in intertidal zones.

The EPA has also explored mangrove cultivation trials on Boubyan Island and in the Ghadhi area, although the Jahra Nature Reserve has yielded the best results to date. The authority is working to expand the project regionally, with plans to collaborate with Saudi Arabia to create a marine nursery dedicated to mangrove propagation.

Participation in the Oman Climate Week workshop allowed Kuwaiti representatives to exchange insights with some 50 delegates from 15 Arab and international countries, enhancing regional cooperation on environmental protection and climate adaptation strategies.

In a related engagement, the EPA, represented by Acting Director General Nouf Behbehani, took part in the Women and Climate Summit at Amman Climate Week 2026. The EPA contributed to a dialogue session focused on the role of women in climate action, emphasizing their contributions to resilience and addressing challenges posed by climate change.

Oman Climate Week 2026, now in its second edition, continues through the week with various sessions, panel discussions, and networking events designed to promote sustainability, climate solutions, and partnerships across the region. The event brings together a broad array of stakeholders to enhance collaboration and showcase ongoing environmental initiatives.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.