The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and expanding Qatar’s mangrove forests, noting that the country is home to approximately 14sq km of mangrove coverage, including more than 7sq km within Al Thakhira Nature Reserve.
Marking the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, observed annually on July 26, the ministry said mangrove forests are found in several locations across the country, including Al Khor, Al Thakhira, Al Wakrah, Mesaieed, Al Aaliya Island, Fuwairit, Al Ruwais, Al Arish and Al Jemail.
The MoECC said it is working with national entities and institutions to protect mangrove forests, preserve their natural habitats, prevent overexploitation, and implement afforestation programmes based on scientific studies that assess the environmental suitability of planting sites.
Khalid Juma al-Mohannadi, the director of the MoECC’s Wildlife Development Department, said that protecting mangrove forests “is not limited to expanding their area, but depends on the integrated management of their habitats, beginning with assessing site suitability in terms of tidal movement, soil characteristics and salinity, and extending to monitoring seedling growth and evaluating their condition after planting”.
He stressed that the success of mangrove planting programmes “should not be measured solely by the number of seedlings planted, but also by their ability to grow naturally and support marine habitats”.
Al-Mohannadi added that the ministry’s strategy focuses on protecting existing mangrove sites, encouraging natural regeneration, and carefully expanding plantations without disrupting the ecological balance of coastal areas.
He said successful mangrove cultivation depends on selecting appropriate locations, planting at the right time, and using suitable methods under the ministry’s supervision.
The official urged individuals and organisations planning mangrove planting initiatives to co-ordinate with the ministry in advance to ensure site suitability and compliance with approved environmental requirements, helping safeguard coastal ecosystems and achieve long-term conservation goals.
The ministry also highlighted mangrove forests’ contribution to climate change mitigation, citing global estimates that a single hectare can store about 3,754 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2), including carbon retained in both vegetation and soil.
In addition, mangroves play a vital role in protecting coastlines from erosion, reducing the impact of waves and coastal storms, and providing breeding, nursery and feeding grounds for numerous fish, shrimp and crustacean species.
They also serve as important habitats for resident and migratory birds, supporting marine and coastal biodiversity.
The ministry further underscored the tourism and economic value of mangrove forests, noting that destinations such as Al Thakhira Nature Reserve have become popular among nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists while contributing to fisheries and helping maintain the ecological balance of Qatar’s coastal environment.
