In a rare and remarkable event, Arabian humpback whales — one of the world’s most endangered whale populations — have been spotted off the coast of Gwadar, Pakistan, marking a significant moment for the country’s marine ecosystem.
According to the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) and WWF-Pakistan, the whales were observed by local fishermen and marine biologists near Ormara and Gwadar earlier this week. Videos and photographs of the sighting quickly went viral, drawing attention from conservationists across the region.
Experts say the Arabian humpback whale population is unique because it is non-migratory, residing year-round in the Arabian Sea — a behavior not seen in other humpback populations worldwide. Only a few hundred of these whales are believed to exist, making every sighting scientifically valuable and ecologically significant.
“This is a positive indicator of the health of Pakistan’s marine environment,” said WWF-Pakistan’s Marine Program Director, adding that it underscores the need to protect critical habitats along the Makran coast.
Marine researchers have urged authorities to enhance marine conservation efforts, curb illegal fishing practices, and establish protected zones for endangered marine life in Pakistan’s coastal waters.
Local fishermen expressed excitement and pride over witnessing the rare species, viewing it as a symbol of hope for Gwadar’s natural heritage.
The sighting has renewed calls for eco-tourism initiatives and greater investment in marine research, which experts believe could help both the environment and local communities.
