Whale Shark Spotted in Abu Dhabi Corniche
- Publish date: Saturday، 06 July 2024 | Last update: Tuesday، 10 December 2024
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi shares an awe-inspiring video of this gentle giant cruising the Corniche.
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A friendly whale shark has made a splashy appearance in the waters off Abu Dhabi. The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) recently shared an awe-inspiring video of this gentle giant cruising the Cornche.
The video, posted on EAD’s official Instagram account, reassured viewers, stating, “Although whale sharks are the largest fish in the oceans, they are gentle species and pose no threat to humans.” So, no need to panic—just admire from a safe distance.
EAD urges everyone to keep their distance and not disturb the whale shark. They want to ensure both our community’s safety and the health of our marine environment. If you happen to spot the whale shark, EAD encourages you to contact the Abu Dhabi Government Call Center at 800555 to report the sighting.
Whale sharks are the ultimate filter feeders. They dine on plankton, krill, and fish eggs, making them completely harmless to humans. These ocean behemoths can live up to 130 years and hold the title of the largest non-cetacean (non-whale) animal in the world.
There were previous sightings in previous years. Whale sharks are harmless slow-moving shark species and have been spotted in the busy waterways, with numerous sightings of the stunning endangered creatures happening across Dubai and Abu Dhabi over the last number of years.
Sadly, whale sharks are on the endangered species list. Despite international bans on capturing whale sharks, the demand for their fins, skin, and oil means they’re often victims of illegal fishing. Their numbers also suffer due to boat collisions and their unique breeding behavior—they live long lives but mature and reproduce slowly.
So, if you're lucky enough to spot this magnificent creature, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and rarity of the experience. And remember, keep your distance to help protect our precious marine visitor.