Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The National Center for Wildlife (NCW), in collaboration with the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve Development Authority, has released 80 endangered animals into the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve.

The release includes 40 Rhim gazelles, 20 Arabian oryx, six mountain gazelles, eight Nubian ibex, one lappet-faced vulture, three Eurasian griffon vultures, and two steppe eagles, along with migratory birds that were rehabilitated at NCW care facilities.

Dr. Muhammad Qurban, CEO of NCW, explained that this release is part of a broader initiative to propagate endangered species, rehabilitate ecosystems, and enhance biodiversity, aligning with the Saudi Green Initiative and the National Environment Strategy.

“The center’s work focuses on propagating endangered species and re-establishing them in their natural environments, following the highest international standards and practices,” Dr. Qurban said.

Andrew Zaloumis, CEO of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve Development, emphasized the importance of restoring wildlife and ecosystems within the reserve.

He noted that the reserve, which covers just 1% of Saudi Arabia’s land area and 1.8% of its marine area, is home to more than 50% of the Kingdom’s species.

“Our partnership with NCW is instrumental in re-establishing species that historically inhabited the reserve, contributing to biodiversity enhancement and supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives,” Zaloumis said.

The National Center for Wildlife Development has been committed to wildlife protection, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem restoration since its inception.

The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve, one of eight royal reserves in Saudi Arabia, spans 24,500 square kilometers and is located in the western region near the Red Sea, connecting with major projects such as NEOM, the Red Sea project, and AlUla.