General Information
What is Sharks International 2026?
Sharks International 2026 is the world’s largest conference dedicated to shark, ray, and chimaera research, conservation, and management.
Where and when is the conference?
The conference will take place in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from 4 – 8 May 2026 at BMICH.
Do I need to be invited to attend SI2026?
No, Sharks International 2026 is open to all interested participants. You do not need an invitation to attend—simply complete your Registration to attend.
Can I attend the conference if I am not presenting?
Yes! You do not need to present to attend Sharks International 2026. We welcome all to join, network, and engage in discussions. Check the Registration page for details on how to sign up.
Who is organising the conference?
The conference is hosted by Blue Resources Trust (BRT), with support from a global team of experts.
Registration & Abstracts
How do I register?
Visit the Registration page for details on rates, deadlines, and how to sign up.
Does submitting an abstract mean I’m registered?
No, submitting an abstract does not automatically register you. You must complete registration separately: Registration. Presenters with accepted abstracts must register by 28 February 2026.
Do I need an invitation to present in a session?
No, all sessions at SI2026 are open. Anyone may submit an abstract for consideration in a session without needing a personal invitation. Each submission will be reviewed by a session moderator and the SI2026 Scientific Committee.
What if my topic does not fit into any of the listed sessions?
No problem! If your abstract does not fit within a specific session, it will be considered for placement in a general or thematic session created to accommodate broader topics - just select “No particular session/any session” from the sessions drop-down menu when submitting. We welcome diverse research and ideas!
At what stage should my research be to submit an abstract?
The simple answer is any stage! You are welcome to submit conceptual ideas or planned research (to gather feedback), ongoing research, completed projects, and even abstracts for already accepted or published manuscripts. We welcome abstracts for all stages, as one of the key purposes of this conference is to exchange knowledge!
Can I submit both a poster and an oral presentation?
Yes, participants may submit abstracts for both, but it’s not a requirement. More details: Abstract Submission.
How do I know if my abstract was successfully submitted?
After submitting your abstract, you should receive a confirmation email. If you don’t see it in your inbox, please check your spam or junk folder. If you still haven’t received confirmation, contact: abstracts@si2026.org.
Can I edit my abstract?
Once your abstract is submitted, you can no longer edit it.
What are the SAARC countries?
SAARC countries include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
Which countries are “low-income”?
Low-income countries are those classified as “low-income” or “lower-middle-income” by the World Bank. View the full list here.
How can I make payments for registration?
SI2026 accepts payments via our website and secure payment gateway, using any international standard credit or debit card. If you are having trouble with payment, we would recommend checking with your bank to make sure your card is not blocked. Other payment options (such as PayPal) are not possible for incoming funds into Sri Lanka.
How do I withdraw an abstract?
If you need to withdraw an abstract, please email your request to: cancellations@si2026.org.
Visas & Travel
Do I need a visa to enter Sri Lanka?
All travellers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online before travelling to Sri Lanka. The ETA enables you to obtain a visa on arrival from immigration once you land in Sri Lanka. Almost all countries are eligible to apply for an ETA online. Check the Travel and Visas section for details.
Which airport should I fly into?
The main international gateway is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located about 30 km from Colombo.
Vesak Celebrations!
Please be aware that Vesak Day (festival of lights) is one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist festivals and falls on 1–2 May 2026, just before our conference. On these dates, many shops, banks, and some transport services may operate reduced hours or close entirely. Expect heavier traffic near temples and lantern displays (known as “Vesak koodu”) in the evenings. We encourage you to go out and enjoy the light displays, but please dress modestly when visiting public displays or temples (covering shoulders and knees) and observe local customs, such as removing footwear before entering shrines.
Accommodation & Getting Around
Are there recommended hotels?
Yes! We have secured preferential rates, which are available via the registration portal and through Where to Stay.
What are the best areas to stay in?
Colombo 7 is closest to the venue, but Colombo 1 – 6 & 8 are also good options. See Where to Stay for details.
How do I get around Colombo?
Taxis (including rideshare apps like PickMe and Uber), tuk-tuks, and buses. Full details in Getting Around.
At the Conference
What is the dress code?
Feel free to dress casually and stay cool in our tropical climate—think lightweight, breathable fabrics, comfortable footwear, and yes, even shorts are perfectly fine. You may want to bring a light layer for the air-conditioned hall (we’ll do our best to keep it comfortable, but it's a large space!). And don’t forget your “sharky” gear—bring on the ocean-inspired tees and accessories. Who knows, you might just win our Best Shark or Ray Outfit prize!
Child Care
Please note that Sharks International 2026 does not offer on-site child care services due to cost implications. Attendees requiring childcare must make their own arrangements. We appreciate your understanding.
Grants & Volunteering
Are there grants available?
Yes! In addition to heavily subsidised registration rates, we are offering 100 small awards (USD 50 each) to national, SAARC, and low-income country students based on abstract merit. More info: Grants and Awards.
Can I volunteer at the conference?
A limited number of student volunteers will receive additional registration discounts. Volunteers must commit to the equivalent of at least one full conference day spread across the five days. See Volunteering.
Support the Conference
How can I support the conference?
Sponsorship and supporter opportunities are available at different levels. Check out the Sponsors, supporters, and exhibitors page for more details on how to reach out.
Conference Code of Conduct
What is the Code of Conduct?
Sharks International 2026 is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all attendees. View the full policy: Code of Conduct.