The Great Crested Tern (Thalasseus bergii) is a large, striking seabird that is commonly seen along the UAE’s coastline and offshore islands. With its pale grey upperparts, white underparts, long yellow bill, and shaggy black crest, it is easy to recognize among coastal tern species. In the UAE, it is a resident breeder, nesting in dense colonies on offshore islands, often alongside other terns such as the Swift and Lesser Crested Terns. Although present year-round, its numbers may increase or shift slightly due to regional movements, making it a partial migrant. The Great Crested Tern typically forages in shallow marine waters, diving for fish and often seen gliding low over the sea or resting on sandbars, making it a prominent feature of the country’s marine birdlife.