Management of Marine Protected Zones – Case Study of Bahrain, Arabian Gulf

Abstract

Coastal and marine environments in Bahrain are characterized by a variety of habitats, including seagrass beds, coral reefs, and mangroves that support some of the most en‐ dangered species such as dugongs and turtles. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are con‐ sidered the most advocated approach for marine conservation. Several MPAs have been established in Bahrain. This study explores the ecological and legal contexts of MPAs in Bahrain and evaluates the effectiveness of these MPAs in achieving their con‐ servation goals. Although MPAs are contributing to the protection of critical coastal and marine habitats and their associated flora and fauna, there is yet further need to strengthen efforts on conserving coastal and marine environments in Bahrain. Effective‐ ness of MPAs in Bahrain could be enhanced by developing management plans, imple‐ menting the necessary regulatory measures, and investing in long-term monitoring and research programs. Findings of this study could contribute to wider regional and inter‐ national experience of the effectiveness of MPAs in protecting important coastal and marine environments.