A regional framework to protect the endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale population was formally adopted at the 70th meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC) held from September 27 to October 2, 2026, in Hobart, Australia. This marks a significant step toward coordinated management and conservation of a population estimated to number fewer than 100 individuals and known for its unique year-round residency in the Arabian Sea.

Unlike other humpback whale groups that undertake extensive migratory routes between breeding and feeding grounds, the Arabian Sea humpbacks remain within the same waters throughout the year. Their limited numbers and geographic isolation render them particularly vulnerable to environmental threats and human activities.

The conservation initiative, known as the Conservation Management Plan, had already received endorsement earlier in 2026 from the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS). The joint IWC-CMS framework is designed to foster collaboration among countries whose national waters serve as habitat for these whales, addressing cross-border challenges such as shipping traffic, fishing gear entanglement, and habitat degradation.

The plan outlines four key priorities: enhancing research and monitoring efforts; mitigating direct threats including vessel strikes and fisheries interactions; strengthening regional coordination among range states; and promoting awareness and capacity building through training and public engagement initiatives.

Gianna Minton of the Arabian Sea Whale Network highlighted the importance of the plan, noting that the Arabian Sea humpback whale population has been classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List since 2008. She described the adoption of the plan as a milestone fulfilling longstanding recommendations by multiple conservation bodies aimed at securing the species’ future.

Potential risks identified by the IWC extend to nearshore development, offshore hydrocarbon activities, increased shipping, and discarded fishing equipment—all factors that require cross-national cooperation to effectively manage. Oman plays a pivotal role in these efforts, having hosted a regional workshop in 2025 that contributed to the plan’s formation. The country has also been recognized for its consistent engagement in research and conservation actions related to the Arabian Sea humpbacks.

Ahmed al Shukaili, Director of the Marine Environment Department at Oman’s Environment Authority, emphasized the nation’s commitment to the species, stating the plan offers a clear structure to advance research, reduce risks such as ship strikes and abandoned fishing materials, and enhance collaboration with regional partners.

Echoing this sentiment, Suaad Al Harthi from the Environment Society of Oman noted that what began over two decades ago as a grassroots effort has evolved into a substantial scientific program that now underpins formal conservation policy. She described the plan’s adoption as a significant achievement and expressed anticipation for translating the framework into effective regional conservation action.

Since its establishment in 2015, the Arabian Sea Whale Network has served as a platform for information exchange and awareness-raising among stakeholders across the whales’ habitat range. Moving forward, securing funding and cooperative support will be critical for implementing the plan’s recommended actions.

Experts agree that while the framework provides a crucial foundation for protection, sustained regional cooperation and rigorous scientific monitoring will be indispensable to safeguarding this vulnerable humpback whale population in a shared marine environment.