The National Center for Wildlife (NCW), in collaboration with NEOM, has successfully released 134 endangered species into the NEOM Nature Reserve. This significant initiative aims to enhance biodiversity and restore the delicate ecological balance within the Kingdom's natural environments.
The release included 100 Arabian oryxes, 20 Arabian gazelles, eight Nubian ibexes, and six Idmi gazelles, further enriching the existing wildlife populations within the reserve.
"This release is a testament to our ongoing efforts to breed and reintroduce endangered species back into their natural habitats," said Dr. Mohammed Ali Qurban, CEO of the National Center for Wildlife. "We are committed to upholding the highest global standards in conservation and are proud to collaborate with partners like NEOM to achieve this critical mission."
Dr. Qurban emphasised that the NCW operates state-of-the-art facilities that rival the best in the world, ensuring the successful breeding and reintroduction of these vital species.
This wildlife release aligns seamlessly with the pillars of Vision 2030, and the Kingdom's broader vision for environmental conservation and its commitment to sustainable development. By restoring biodiversity and enhancing the appeal of nature reserves, the Kingdom aims to foster eco-tourism and create a sustainable future for generations to come.
This release signifies a significant step forward in the Kingdom's efforts to protect endangered species and restore their rightful place within the natural ecosystem.
Successful Conservation Efforts in Saudi
In July 2024, the National Center for Wildlife celebrated a major conservation victory with the birth of four Asiatic cheetah cubs, for the first time in forty years. Under the guidance of His Excellency Eng Abdulrahman Abdulmohsen AlFadley, Chair of the NCW, this incredible moment marks a significant achievement and step forward in the Kingdom's efforts to restore cheetah populations in the region. The litter included three females and one male, whose names have been confirmed as Thawab, Kashma'a, Fahdah and Hayah.
Last year it was also announced that February 10 would officially become International Arabian Leopard Day. Serving as a way to highlight the conservation efforts and the challenges faced by the Arabian Leopard species, the goal is to work towards one day remove the big cat from the 'critically endangered' species list. The Royal Commission for AlUla has teamed up with several internationally respected conservation organisations to work to conserve and repopulate the Arabian Leopard in the Kingdom, through a breeding programme and biodiversity restoration.
