A team of construction workers at the Riviera Residences by Mered project on Abu Dhabi's Al Reem Island rescued an injured green sea turtle after spotting her drifting listlessly in shallow water near the shoreline earlier this week. A buggy driver named Sahil and several colleagues noticed the turtle was barely moving and appeared unable to dive properly.
On closer inspection, the workers found a wound on the turtle's neck, likely caused by a boat strike, which had left her struggling against the current instead of swimming normally. The team kept her shaded and calm while alerting the relevant authorities, then placed her in a box lined with damp towels to stabilise her until specialist help arrived.
The workers named the elderly turtle "Riviera" after the site where she was found. She has since been transferred to the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, where she is receiving specialised veterinary care. Aquarium staff say they will determine when she is healthy enough to be released back into the sea.
The rescue highlights the role ordinary residents and workers play in protecting marine wildlife along the UAE coast. Green sea turtles, a frequent presence in Gulf waters, face growing risks from boat traffic and coastal pollution, and wildlife officials say quick action by bystanders like the Al Reem Island crew often makes the difference between survival and loss for injured animals.