Kuwaiti Diving Team Head Waleed Al-Fadhel has reassured the public regarding the recent shark sightings in the Bneider coastal area, emphasizing that the presence of these marine creatures is natural and essential for maintaining ecological balance. Dismissing growing fears of a shark invasion, Al-Fadhel stressed the importance of scientific awareness and responsible interaction with marine life.

Al-Fadhel explained that sharks are an integral part of the Kuwaiti marine ecosystem, not foreign intruders. “Sharks help clean the sea of dead fish and carcasses, acting as natural scavengers,” he said. “They are not in the sea without reason—they play a vital environmental role.”

He further pointed out that the Bneider area has long been known for marine biodiversity and is a hotspot for divers and researchers. Recent photos and video footage showing increased shark activity, especially in Bneider, support this fact. Their presence, according to Al-Fadhel, should be seen as an indicator of the recovery and health of the marine environment.

Warning against overfishing, Al-Fadhel highlighted that sharks are increasingly being hunted for their fins, which are used in making expensive delicacies like shark fin soup. This practice has contributed to their endangered status in several regions.

“Sharks are often misunderstood due to media exaggeration,” he stated, urging the public to avoid panic and misinformation. “Our marine environment has witnessed very few shark-related incidents in Kuwait’s history, and most were not life-threatening.”

He noted that the only truly dangerous species in the region is the white shark, known for its elongated tail. However, such sightings are extremely rare.

Citing marine studies, Al-Fadhel said sharks are not limited to oceans around Australia or the Americas. They are also naturally present in the Arabian Gulf and Red Sea, with regular sightings recorded in Kuwaiti waters.

He emphasized the need for a scientific and environmental approach to understanding shark behavior, rather than relying on fear. “Sharks are a balanced ecological entity. Creating fear without scientific basis benefits no one,” he affirmed.

Marine experts like Al-Fadhel are urging authorities and communities to promote marine education and establish guidelines that balance conservation and safety. Preserving species such as sharks, which are vital to the marine food chain, is essential to sustain biodiversity in Kuwait’s territorial waters.