Ukrainian tourists face action over turtle-riding video in Oman

A viral video showing two Ukrainian tourists riding a sea turtle in Oman has prompted legal action over alleged breaches of wildlife protection laws. 

Oman’s Environment Authority announced on Tuesday that the incident, which took place at Ras Al Hadd in South Al Sharqiyah, was believed to have violated Omani laws and regulations protecting wildlife. Authorities also confirmed in a statement that the necessary legal procedures had been initiated against those involved. 

The now-deleted video, shared by fitness influencer Vadym Oleynik, appeared to show the couple sitting on the turtle’s shell as it remained on the shore. The footage also appeared to show hatchlings being mishandled. 

According to Al Jazeera, the tourists have reportedly since apologised, claiming they were unaware that their actions were inappropriate. 

The incident has prompted authorities to remind visitors of regulations governing access to turtle nesting sites, particularly during the annual nesting season. Tourists, residents and citizens have been urged not to touch, approach or otherwise disturb turtles. 

Oman is home to some of the world’s most important turtle nesting grounds.

According to environmental experts, thousands of turtles migrate annually from the Arabian Gulf and beyond to lay their eggs along the Sultanate’s shores, as turtles nest along the length of Oman’s coastline- stretching from Musandam in the north to Dhofar in the south. 

Among the most prominent nesting sites is Ras Al Jinz, a coastal conservation area and turtle nesting site at the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula in Al Hadd, Oman.  

The area is particularly known for its green turtles.