Ras al-Jinz

Ras al-Jinz is a coastal turtle-nesting area on Oman’s eastern seaboard, recognised as one of the region’s important beaches for green sea turtles. It is part of a protected area dedicated to sea turtle conservation.

Small visitor facilities and nightly guided beach walks are focused on observing nesting females and hatchlings; educational displays explain the species and conservation measures. The site draws wildlife-focused visitors rather than large-scale tourism, and activities are timed to minimise disturbance to the animals.

The beach has been used by sea turtles for nesting for many years and was set aside to protect those nesting sites and the surrounding habitat. Conservation work and controlled visitor access aim to reduce threats from lights, predators and human disturbance.

The site sits on Oman’s eastern coast on a rocky headland near the village of Ras al Hadd, on the Arabian Sea. It is located on the Ash Sharqiyah coast, roughly east of the port town of Sur.

• Guided night visits: Night-time guided walks are the standard way to see nesting turtles; flash photography is restricted and guides control beach access to protect wildlife.
• Season and booking: Nesting activity peaks in the warmer months, so book tours in advance during the local nesting season to improve chances of seeing turtles.

What to See #

• Visitor centre: Located on the reserve coastline, the protected visitor complex includes an interpretive centre with displays about local sea turtle biology and conservation, plus a small overnight facility for guests.
• Turtle nesting beach: The adjacent nesting beach is the primary site where guided night walks observe green sea turtle nesting and hatchling releases on the sand.