Riyadh: The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) is set to celebrate the International Day of the Arabian Leopard under the theme 'Leap of Hope.' The day, observed annually on February 10, underscores RCU's commitment to biodiversity protection, wildlife preservation, and global conservation efforts for the Arabian leopard, a critically endangered species.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the celebration is a continuation of an initiative launched by RCU in 2022, in collaboration with the Arabian Leopard Fund and Catmosphere. The day received international recognition in June 2023 when the United Nations General Assembly designated February 10 as the International Day of the Arabian Leopard, marking global awareness of the species' conservation needs.
The event highlights the efforts spearheaded by RCU in partnership with entities such as the Arabian Leopard Fund, Catmosphere, the Smithsonian Institution, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). These efforts are part of RCU's mission to restore ecosystems within AlUla's nature reserves, with five reserves under RCU's management. Conservation measures include enhancing vegetation and wildlife protection, maintaining ecological balance, and preparing for the reintroduction of the Arabian leopard into its natural habitat.
RCU and its partners are engaged in various initiatives, such as environmental data analysis, wildlife monitoring post-reintroduction, scientific report preparation, and the development of long-term conservation strategies that adhere to international standards.
To commemorate the day, RCU is unveiling the 'Leap of Hope' campaign, aimed at raising awareness and engaging the local community in conservation activities. This includes Arabian Leopard Trails in collaboration with AlUla Club, guided ecosystem tours, and a dialogue session. The campaign also has an international dimension, featuring a specialized workshop and awareness event in the United States in partnership with the Smithsonian Institution.
The International Day of the Arabian Leopard has become a significant event on the global environmental calendar, highlighting the critical status of the species and reinforcing conservation commitments throughout the year. RCU's Arabian Leopard Conservation Breeding Center is notable as the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia to join the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and the third in the Middle East, demonstrating Saudi Arabia's commitment to biodiversity protection in line with international standards.