Al Ain Zoo Photography Competition

Al Ain Zoo’s annual Photography and Videography Competition is back

- The 2015 competition returns with new categories and valuable prizes, encouraging enthusiasts to take their best shots of wildlife and nature–

Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, 21 April, 2015: Al Ain Zoo’s annual photography and videography competition has kicked off, challenging young enthusiasts to take their best shots and videos of Arid Land Wildlife and their zoo experience until the end of May.

With a focus on capturing behaviour and the improvements in camera phone technology, anyone can enter the competition without the need for expensive equipment. Through exciting new categories, budding, amateur and professional photographers and videographers have the opportunity to showcase their creativity. Six categories form this year’s main ‘Zoography’ photo competition including ‘At Play’, ‘Snackattack!’, ‘At Rest’, ‘Friendship’, ‘Poser’, and the zoo’s answer to Selfies – ‘Zoofies’!

Commenting on the new additions, Muna Al Dhaheri, the Chief of Conservation and Education at Al Ain Zoo, said:

“Educating all our visitors, and especially the younger generation about animals and ensuring that wildlife and nature is a source of inspiration for them is a core commitment of Al Ain Zoo. This year, new categories were added to the competition, which gives us a great opportunity to further communicate our conservation efforts, and reward those who help us put these efforts in a picture. The launch of the new Photographer of the Year awards will help further establish Al Ain Zoo’s leading role in the topic of Arid Land Wildlife, bringing to life the beauty we need to conserve, and the challenges such life faces in today’s world.”

“The response to last year’s competition was great, and with the addition of new categories and exciting prizes this year, the continued and valued support of Grand Stores and Nikon, we are confident that participants will surprise us with even more creative entries,” she added.

New for 2015, the zoo starts its hunt to find the ‘Arid Land Wildlife Photographer of the Year’ and ‘Junior Arid Land Wildlife Photographer of the Year’. The two dedicated awards are open to anyone in the world and participants are required to submit photos of arid land species either in the wild, at the zoo, interacting with their natural habitats, or trying to adapt to the changing world.

The zoo also launched ‘My Day at Al Ain Zoo Video Competition’, which coincides with the 10^th anniversary of the first ever YouTube video called “My Day at The Zoo” filmed at San Diego Zoo, one of Al Ain Zoo’s strategic partners. This category invites budding videographers to film their journey and best moments at the zoo.

A welcome return for 2015 is the sponsorship of Grand Stores and Nikon Camera’s, donating a range of high-tech camera equipment, animal photo workshops and participating in the judging panel to decide the winners. The winning entries will be exhibited in the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, due to open later this year, and also featured in the zoo’s 2016 calendar. The winners will be announced on 30 September, 2015.

About the Competition Categories:

At Play - Animals enjoy their lives at Al Ain Zoo and whether it’s pulling funny faces or pulling pranks on one another, they brighten both their day and the zoo’s with their antics. Look out for when the zoo adds ‘enrichment’ activities to brighten their day.

Snackattack – Feeding time is most animal’s favourite time of the day, from a Crocodile’s snappy snacking to Lady the Gorilla foraging out her favourite seeds.

At Rest – Arid Lands are hot places and most of our animals are highly acclimatized to the weather. From digging a shallow hollow to lay in, to a flick of the tail animals take it easy and rest in the heat of day to keep themselves cool. Being in Al Ain, the green heart of the UAE, many animals enjoy the shade of the abundant plant life in the zoo.

Friendship – As we have 4,000 animals, most of our 197 species are not alone. Look out especially for baby animals making friends or sharing family moments. One of 2014’s winners celebrated the intimacy of Chimpanzees, and you can spot other more unusual friendships in the zoo in our mixed animal exhibits – or snap a close encounter in the children’s petting zoo.

Poser – Humans aren’t the only ones to strut their stuff. From the birds on display in our bird and parrot shows, to the prowl of a leopard the zoo has plenty of attention seekers. From displays of plumage to flexing of muscles, in the animal kingdom survival of the fittest is often survival of the most fabulous.

Selfie – We all know you love a selfie. Put those reverse camera phones on, get out your selfie sticks, set your timers to get back in the picture and share online to your heart’s galore – all with your favourite animals in the background. Just remember to not be too enthusiastic and try to get too close - where we have fences it’s for a reason!For more information on the terms and conditions for each category, kindly visit www.alainzoo.ae

Al Ain Zoo is open daily from 9am to 8pm until 31^st May, 2015. Summer Night Zoo operating hours will begin 1^st June, 2015, opening daily from 4pm to 10pm.

For images or more information, please contact:

Tarek Ali

Communications Officer

Al Ain Zoo

Mobile: 052 6058861

Direct: 03 7992235

Email: tarek.ali@alainzoo.ae  

For more information on Al Ain Zoo please visit www.alainzoo.ae.  

You can also follow Al Ain Zoo on www.facebook.com/AlAinZooUae

or www.twitter.com/AlAinZooUAE

Al Ain Zoo Hosts the first Arabian Population Management Plan Workshop for the Arabian Sand Cat

Al Ain Zoo Hosts the first Arabian Population Management Plan Workshop for the Arabian Sand Cat

-        A two-day event focused on continuing the drive to conserve the Arabian sand cat-

Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, 11 September, 2014: Al Ain Zoo has recently initiated and hosted the Arabian Population Management Plan Workshop (APMP), a two-day event focused on continuing the drive to conserve the Arabian sand cat. 

The workshop, which took place from the 10^th - 11^th September, was attended by representatives from the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, France and the UK in addition to Dr. David Mallon from the International Union for Conservation of Nature Species Survival Commission (IUCN).

Commenting on the initiative, H.E. Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri, said:

“We are proud to collaborate with The Arabian Zoo and Aquarium Association to host the first Arabian Population Management Plan Workshop for the Arabian Sand cat, and we are confident that this will form the basis to perform APMP’s for other species in the future.”

“We strongly believe that our cooperation with our regional and international partners will showcase great results in sustaining the genetic diversity of captive endangered species, especially in relation to the Arabian sand cat. The importance of hosting the first Arabian Population Management Plan for the Arabian sand cat cannot be underestimated as it further reflects our role as global leaders in species conservation.” He added

The institutions collaborated during the workshop to develop and agree on:

·       The main vision of the APMP

·       Participation terms and conditions

·       Updating  information on regional sand cat collections

·       Collating  the needed requirements of all Arabian institutions including those currently with sand cats and those wishing to acquire sand cats

·       A full analysis on the current genetic and demographic status of the zoo’s population  to identify needs and priorities

In November 2013, Al Ain Zoo hosted the Arabian Sand Cat One Plan Conservation Workshop, a two-day event focused on continuing the drive to conserve the Arabian sand cat.  The workshop saw 30 experts from regional and international institutions – including the International Union for Conservation of Nature Species Survival Commission (IUCN) – convene at the zoo, which is home to the largest ex situ (captive) population of the species worldwide.  

The sand cat inhabits the deserts of Arabia, North Africa and Central Asia, with the Arabian sand cat being a distinct population. Degradation of the desert environment has led to the decline of many species, including the sand cat. IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Species lists the cat as ‘near threatened’, however the threat to many local populations in the region is suspected to be much higher. In fact, the Arabian Sand Cat is classified as ‘endangered’ in both the UAE’s and Abu Dhabi’s regional IUCN Red Lists, with only four reliable sightings in the Emirate since 1995.  Due to the mysterious nature of this species, it is challenging to estimate exactly how many individuals are left in the wild. Factors including overgrazing, habitat loss and accidental poisoning aimed at foxes and dogs mean that the wild population could be under threat. 

Al Ain Zoo to Participate in Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition

Al Ain Zoo to Participate in Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition

- Zoo to introduce veterinary consulting services-

Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, 08 September, 2014: Al Ain Zoo will participate in the upcoming Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) to promote conservation, captive breeding, propagation, and the reintroduction of endangered species.

ADIHEX will be held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from 10th to 13th September, 2014. The zoo’s corporate exhibition stand will be located in hall 9, in a sector run by the Promotion & Preservation of Cultural Heritage.

Commenting on the participation, Muna Al Dhaheri, Chief of Conservation and Education at Al Ain Zoo said:

“Al Ain Zoo has launched several conservation programs and initiatives that focus on wildlife sustainability and the protection of desert species and our participation at ADIHEX furthers our commitment to educate the public on these initiatives. We also hope to inspire the younger generation to learn more about wildlife. It is an opportunity to showcase Al Ain Zoo as one of the Middle East’s largest zoos and a global leader in the conservation of arid-land species.”

“Al Ain Zoo’s experienced personnel will educate visitors about our newly launched Veterinary Consultancy Services, which give the zoo’s exotic and wild animals the highest level of dedicated expert care and provide diagnostic support for our new state of the art Veterinary Diagnostic & Research Unit.”

Al Ain Zoo will inform the public about its latest attractions and entertain visitors with wildlife experiences, including the Bird Show and Parrot Show, which will be held in Hall 12.

Al Ain Zoo showcases the endangered Arabian Oryx

Al Ain Zoo showcases the endangered Arabian Oryx

Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, 19 June 2014: As part of its commitment to the conservation of arid Arabian land species and in line with its endangered species campaign, Al Ain Zoo profiled its conservation and breeding efforts pertaining to the Arabian Oryx while celebrating its successful reintroduction programmes in the United Arab Emirates.

Al Ain Zoo showcased the Arabian Oryx, while highlighting the efforts of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, to save this critically endangered species from extinction in the seventies, when their numbers began to decline and reached 5- 7 individuals in the wild. The late Sheikh Zayed directed his attention towards saving this animal not only for its natural and environmental presence, but also for its cultural value in the UAE.

Commenting on the importance of the Arabian Oryx and the Zoo’s conservation efforts, Muna Al Dhaheri, Chief of Conservation and Education at Al Ain Zoo said:

"In an effort to continue fulfilling the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Al Ain Zoo has adopted several conservation programmes highly focused on captive management and breeding, propagation, and reintroduction of endangered species such as the Arabian Oryx.  As part of its conservation efforts, Al Ain Zoo took part in a reintroduction programme of the Arabian Oryx back in 2007, which was implemented by the Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi."

Propagation programs of the Arabian Oryx, one of the Al Ain Zoo’s most successful programs, assisted in changing its classification on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of threatened species, in a rather exceptional way, from extinct in the wild to near threatened.

“The Arabian Oryx is one of the animals that were made available at the zoo since its establishment. Today, Al Ain Zoo is home to a significant amount of healthy Arabian Oryx’s and was also successful in achieving a gender balance amongst the animal, which is usually difficult to accomplish when breeding animals in captivity.” She added

The Arabian Oryx is known for its ability to fully adapt to the desert environment and reduce its need for water consumption during the summer. When water is scarce, the Arabian Oryx can supply themselves with the water from the dew drops that form on the surface of plants. The Arabian Oryx is also known for its identical large horns, which can appear as one horn when seen from a profile, which is probably why the animal was once thought to only have one horn. Their horns are also used to fight predators. Their bright white colour serves as both an advantage and disadvantage. On one hand, the light colours help them cope with the summer heat, but on the other hand the black stripes that occur on the head and neck draw the attention of hunters and predators.

In addition to illegal hunting, urbanization, and the recent restriction of the desert areas (taking into consideration their need of spacious areas), plants and shade are the reasons behind the animals near extinction.

Al Ain Zoo is a member of the World Association for Zoo and Aquaria (WAZA) and is actively involved in several internationally coordinated conservation projects, working with other like-minded organisations such as Durrell Wildlife, Jersey, the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, the Species Survival Commission, San Diego Zoo, the Northern Rangelands Trust of Kenya and the Sahara Conservation Fund.

Al Ain Zoo Establishes New Partnerships with Sahara Conservation Fund and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Al Ain Zoo Establishes New Partnerships with Sahara Conservation Fund and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

- Al Ain Zoo further enhances efforts to conserve arid land species -

Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, 07 May 2014: In line with its ongoing commitment to the conservation of arid land biodiversity and species, Al Ain Zoo has established new partnerships with the Sahara Conservation Fund and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, two leading non-profit conservation organisations in Africa to support conservation and research projects for endangered species.

Commenting on the new partnerships, Muna al Dhaheri, Chief of Conservation and Education at Al Ain Zoo said:

“Al Ain Zoo is dedicated to the conservation of arid land wildlife. Partnerships with leading organisations such as the Sahara Conservation Fund and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy are valuable for us with the high number of endangered African species found in the zoo. Working together will allow us to further support our successful breeding programmes, a key objective for all modern zoos.”

The Sahara Conservation Fund focuses on the conservation of the biodiversity of the Sahara Desert and neighbouring grasslands, a vast area spanning many countries across North Africa. The area contains many unique endangered species due to over-hunting, habitat loss and competition with livestock. Several species have either become extinct in the wild or are on the brink of extinction, including the Scimitar-horned Oryx, Addax and Dama gazelle. Al Ain Zoo has bred these species and others successfully for many years.

Al Ain Zoo, in cooperation with the Sahara Conservation Fund, is supporting the monitoring of lappet-faced vultures and research into the ecology of the Barbary sheep and the Dama gazelle, all species which can be seen in the zoo. This collaborative work will help identify and prioritise conservation needs in the attempt to prevent them from becoming extinct.

John Newby, the Director of the Sahara Conservation Fund said:

“The world zoo community forms the backbone of Sahara Conservation Fund’s efforts to prevent Saharan species becoming extinct in the wild. Our work with Al Ain Zoo is particularly valuable to us as the zoo brings with it its unique experience of arid land species and public outreach to some really pressing issues, such as the conservation of the critically endangered Dama gazelle.  This collaboration is a tangible demonstration of cooperation in the region for issues that are of common concern.”

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is a 61,000 acre protected area in Kenya with a rich diversity of species and habitats. Al Ain Zoo is supporting a number of Lewa’s important projects including the monitoring of Rhinos, predators and the endangered Grevy’s zebra as well as the annual count of game species. With the zoo’s support Lewa has been able to expand and improve its critical species projects by employing and equipping dedicated project officers.

Geoffrey Chege, Chief Conservation Officer of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy said:

"The partnership between Lewa and Al Ain Zoo presents both organisations with an excellent opportunity to further our understanding of key endangered species including the black rhino, Grevy's zebra, lions and elephants. The knowledge gained will be extremely crucial in informing management decisions in a timely manner."

Al Ain Zoo has become part of an international movement within the global zoo community to combine in situ (wild) and ex situ (captive) conservation efforts. The zoo also works with its regional and international partners to sustain the genetic diversity of captive endangered species.

Al Ain Zoo is a member of the World Association for Zoo and Aquaria (WAZA) and is actively involved in several internationally coordinated conservation projects, working with other like-minded organisations such as Durrell Wildlife Park, Jersey, Environment Agency, Abu Dhabi, the Species Survival Commission, San Diego Zoo, the Northern Rangelands Trust of Kenya and the Sahara Conservation Fund.

Al Ain Zoo Launches Arabian Endangered Species Month

Al Ain Zoo Launches Arabian Endangered Species Month

- Themed month aims to raise awareness on the importance of conserving critically endangered species -

Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, 04 May 2014: As part of its commitment to the conservation of arid land species, Al Ain Zoo is set to launch Arabian Endangered Species Month from 1 to 30 May, 2014. Through a wide range of activities, visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the importance of breeding and conservation programmes that have been adopted by Al Ain Zoo.

Each week, zoo keepers will be leading a discussion that focuses on an endangered species, including the Arabian Sand Cat, Arabian Leopard, Arabian Oryx, and the Ghaf Tree. Other related initiatives include an endangered species tour and a “Create Your Own Mask” activity where guests will also be asked to create their own masks and contribute their pictures for a collage to be put on display around a fence specifically designed for this activity at the zoo. A fun and educational cartoon presentation about the Arabian Oryx conservation story will also be exhibited at the Parrot Tent, and visitors can also enjoy a screening of a children’s educational movie that was shot at Al Ain Zoo.

Muna al Dhaheri, Chief of Conservation and Education at Al Ain Zoo said:

“Al Ain Zoo has long been committed to wildlife preservation and is part of numerous partnerships and programmes – both in the UAE and overseas – in this sphere, and our aim is to enlighten the public and encourage them to share this important commitment. Arabian Endangered Species Month will involve visitors in our cause by discovering our exciting animal exhibits in a fun and interactive way.”

Two additional activities will be held on 16 and 17 May in line with World Endangered Species Day, including a trail competition, where guests will be asked to follow a trail that leads to the most endangered species at the zoo, as well as a Ghaf tree planting. Furthermore, on 22 May, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy a photo exhibition, aptly themed Biodiversity and Water, in celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity.

Al Ain Zoo is also home to international programmes and partnerships aimed at protecting critically endangered species through captive breeding, propagation, and the reintroduction of endangered species in to the wild, among others. The zoo has successfully introduced conservation and breeding programmes for a number of species over the past decades, including species of oryx, gazelle, the Arabian Leopard and the Houbara bustard.

Al Ain Zoo is a proud member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquaria (WAZA). Strategic partnerships have been set up with leading zoos, conservation agencies and associations from across the world, including the World Conservation Union and Species Survival Commission, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, San Diego Zoo, Edinburgh Zoo, the Northern Rangelands Trust of Kenya and the Sahara Conservation Fund.

Al Ain Zoo summer operating hours will begin in June, opening daily from 4pm to 10pm.

Al Ain Zoo Celebrates Successful Breeding of Speke’s Gazelle

Al Ain Zoo Celebrates Successful Breeding of Speke’s Gazelle

Endangered Speke’s gazelle population increases after zoo introduces new blood line

Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, 10 February, 2014:  As a lead organisation in arid wild life and conservation effort, Al Ain Zoo has successfully bred the Speke’s gazelle, following the introduction of two male Gazelles from Wadi Al Safa Wildlife Centre in Dubai. The Speke’s gazelle is classified as an endangered species according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, issued in September 2008.

Al Ain Zoo’s Speke’s gazelle herd appeared to be derived from a founder group with no new genetic contribution from new founders; therefore the zoo looked to introduce a new blood line in 2013 – two male gazelles from Wadi Al Safa Wildlife Centre in Dubai. After careful coordination between the two organisations, the two gazelles arrived at Al Ain Zoo, initially housed under quarantine conditions for approximately one month, and then introduced to two separate groups of adult females with the purpose of overcoming in-breeding issues and improving the genetic diversity at Al Ain Zoo.

Adult females were divided into two groups, each male gazelle was introduced to a separate group and almost one year since the introduction, Al Ain Zoo Speke’s gazelle population increased from 18 to 30, indicating a successful breeding of 12 newborns from both breeding groups.

Muna Al Dhaheri, Chief Executive of Education and Conservation, commented:

“Al Ain Zoo has long been committed to wildlife preservation and conservation, and collaborating with many organisations that are aligned with our cause helps us work towards a shared goal. The successful breeding of the Speke’s gazelle supports the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed for the UAE to become a leader in environmental sustainability and wildlife protection, including of desert species.”

The zoo has successfully introduced conservation and breeding programs for a number of species over the past decades, including species of oryx, gazelle, the Arabian Leopard and the Houbara bustard. Al Ain Zoo is also a proud member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquaria (WAZA). Strategic partnerships have been set up with leading zoos, conservation agencies and associations from across the world, including the World Conservation Union and Species Survival Commission, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, San Diego Zoo, Edinburgh Zoo, the Northern Rangelands Trust of Kenya and the Sahara Conservation Fund.

Al Ain Zoo master plan tender floated

03 February 2014

The plan includes development of the existing zoo into an 

institution exhibiting and conserving wildlife of desert.

Al Ain Zoo and Aquarium Public Institution has invited proposals from consultants for the zoo master plan.

According to the tender invite, the participating consultants should be specialized in architecture, landscaping, park designs and environment with experience in zoo master planning and animal facilities.

The tender closes on 18 February while the bid opening date is 19 February, 2014.

The Al Ain Zoo has started a new program that envisages transforming the existing zoo into a new learning destination, which will be dedicated to conserving wildlife.

The project, which will be known as the Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort, will also function as a tourist attraction.

Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre Listed Among Top Sustainable Projects Worldwide

Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre Listed Among Top Sustainable Projects Worldwide

Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, 24 December 2013: The Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, the crown jewel of the planned Al Ain Zoo expansion project, has been selected as a finalist for the 2013 World Architectural News (WAN) Sustainable Building of the Year Award. Embedded within the UAE World Desert, the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre will feature educational exhibits that celebrate the wildlife and traditions of the desert, as well as the conservation-related vision of the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Now in its fifth year, the WAN AWARDS has evolved into the world's largest architectural awards programme. The Awards’ judging panel features international experts with a wealth of experience, looking at more than 1,300 entries across the globe in several categories.  The Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, which features various energy-saving and environmentally-friendly technologies, was shortlisted in the Sustainable Building of the Year category along with five other prestigious entries.

H.E. Ghanim Al Hajeri, Director General of the Zoo & Aquarium Public Institution in Al Ain, commented:

“The Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre is a symbol of national pride, one that continues to drive the late Sheikh Zayed’s vision of wildlife preservation, and celebrates the history of the desert environment and how people can and have adapted to it. We are honoured to be shortlisted in this category, following the Centre’s recognition earlier this year as the National Winner, UAE of the ‘Social Project of the Year Award’ by the prestigious MEED Quality Awards for Projects 2013. The Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre is a leading example in sustainable design, and falls directly in line with the Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 to develop Abu Dhabi as a sustainable Emirate.”

With the support of the ZAPIA Board of Directors – under the chairmanship of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan – the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre will showcase the conservation heritage of the late Sheikh Zayed and help chart a sustainable future for desert living.

The Centre is in the process of applying for LEED Platinum certification, an international rating that assesses the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings. The Centre has also received the five pearl rating of the Estidama Pearl Rating System (PRS) in the design phase, making it the first UAE government development to attain this high of a rating for sustainability.

Set against the backdrop of Jebel Hafeet, the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre has been beautifully sculpted to mirror its breathtaking surroundings. The Centre complements the conservation efforts of Al Ain Zoo, and is set to offer a museum, gallery and a science facility to promote environmental preservation and sustainability through interactive and interpretive exhibits.

Al Ain Zoo to Offer Free Entry for All

Al Ain Zoo to Offer Free Entry for All from

19-20 December  

- Zoo welcomes guests to celebrate 45^th anniversary -

Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, 17 December 2013: Al Ain Zoo will be offering each and every guest complimentary entry to the zoo on both 19^th and 20^th December 2013. The initiative was announced on the occasion of the zoo commemorating its 45^th anniversary this month, allowing guests to join in the celebrations.

Guests who take advantage of the complimentary access can also take in the various activities of Arabian Month, which will explore the region’s rich history through traditional performances, culinary treats, and art work, all alongside the zoo’s celebrated Arabian species.

Al Ain Zoo is open from 9am to 8pm daily.

Interested in getting the word out about your zoo/wildlife related conference or symposium? Zoo News Digest reaches more people in the field than any other medium. Contact Peter Dickinson at elvinhow@gmail.com 

Zoo Conferences, Meetings, Courses and Symposia

Al Ain Zoo Successfully Concludes First Arabian Zoo and Aquarium Association Conference

Al Ain Zoo Successfully Concludes First

Arabian Zoo and Aquarium Association Conference

- Regional plans set for animal welfare, conservation and education -

                                                     

Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, 14 December, 2013:  Al Ain Zoo has drawn the first ever Arabian Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZAA) conference to a successful close, activating plans for an aligned constitution and working practices for association members. The three-day event brought together wildlife, zoo and aquarium experts from around the region to discuss animal management and other issues.

Delegates from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Jordan worked closely throughout the conference to develop the AZAA’s draft Constitution, Code of Conduct and Code of Practice. Al Ain Zoo also led initiatives to set out the Association’s plans for 2014.

H.E. Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri, Director General of Al Ain Zoo, said:

“This historic conference marks a new era for the Middle East’s zoos and aquariums, providing a strong, united voice for the region in the global cause of wildlife conservation. Al Ain Zoo has been an active and committed advocate in this arena, in line with Abu Dhabi’s 2030 vision and with the UAE’s increasing leadership role – both regionally and internationally – to drive conservation efforts forward. As such, we recognise the importance of knowledge-sharing and benchmarking across the region by the AZAA, and we are confident that significant progress can be made in this shared cause through continued collaboration.”

Commenting on the conference, visiting speaker Mr. John Newby, Chief Executive Officer of the Sahara Conservation Fund, said:

“It is a privilege to participate in the first ever AZAA conference, led by Al Ain Zoo. The creation of this association paves the way for more cohesive efforts to conserve wildlife, habitats and other natural resources in the region. While there are many countries represented here, we share similar ecologies and a desire to conserve and sustain them, and we will be able to learn best practice from existing regional associations from around the world.”

Commenting during the event, Muna Al Dhaheri, Chief Executive of Education and Conservation said:

“Unlike other regions, Arabia lacked a formal cross-border association for zoos and aquariums – and for this region in particular, private collections, too. This first AZAA  conference has seen dynamic workshops on key challenges including conservation, education, animal management and training, and our combined efforts will help us address each more effectively. Now that we have established governance documents, our focus is to develop a framework for membership, formalising the process and criteria for institutions to become official AZAA members.”

The AZAA conference brought together more than 60 delegates from the region, with H.E. Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri, Director General of Al Ain Zoo opening the event and introducing guest speakers from across the region. In addition to laying out the essential foundations of the Association, conference attendees participated in plenary sessions on the role of zoos and aquariums in the Arabian Peninsula, as well as a series of workshops. Delegates also experienced Al Ain Zoo’s facilities first-hand with a tour of the zoo, new projects under construction, and experienced a gala dinner adjacent to the stunning Mixed African Exhibit.

The AZAA was formed last year when delegates from zoo and aquarium facilities in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Jordan met and unanimously endorsed the idea, recognising the benefit of communication, collaboration and cooperation across the region.  

Al Ain Zoo is also a member in the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and the European Association of Zoos & Aquaria. In addition to hosting the annual WAZA conference in 2015, the zoo will also host the Conservation Breeding Specialist Group annual meeting in the same year. Al Ain Zoo is further actively involved in several internationally-coordinated conservation projects, working with other like-minded organisations such as Jersey Zoo, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, the Species Survival Commission, San Diego Zoo, the Northern Rangelands Trust of Kenya and the Sahara Conservation Fund.