The red algal species Balliella richardsii (Ceramiaceae, Ceramiales) is newly described from the Sultanate of Oman, the Arabian Peninsula. Its distinctive features include its small stature (to only 18 mm in height), straight apices, and the close positioning of its branching, resulting in a very dense appearance. Gland cells are produced exclusively in an adaxial position and are very abundant. Tetrasporangia are relatively small compared to those in other species of the genus.