Muscat: The Environment Authority (EA) launched on Thursday the “Al Reem 1” project, marking the release of 54 Arabian Sand Gazelle (al Reem Gazelle) into their natural habitat in the Maqshan wilderness of Dhofar Governorate.
Spanning an area of 75 square kilometers, the project is the first of its kind outside designated nature reserves, utilizing GPS and satellite technology to monitor the movements of the released animals.
The launch event was held under the patronage of Sayyid Marwan bin Turki al Said, Governor of Dhofar, and attended by several officials and members of the local community.
Dr Abdullah bin Ali al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority,said the project’s role in bolstering Oman’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
"This initiative reflects the Sultanate of Oman’s dedication to preserving endangered species, rehabilitating natural habitats, and strengthening its position on the global environmental index," he said.
In a statement, Eng Sulaiman al Akhzami, Director General of Nature Conservation at the Environment Authority, emphasised that the reintroduction of the al Reem Gazelle into the wilderness of Maqshan in Dhofar Governorate was based on a comprehensive plan that included well-studied steps to ensure the success of the initiative.
Al Akhzami explained that the plan involved forming specialized teams composed of skilled national cadres and providing the latest equipment and technologies to monitor the animals.
The process also included conducting thorough health checks on the gazelles to ensure their safety prior to release, as well as transporting them in specially designed crates to maintain their security during transit.
He added that temporary enclosures were established at the release site to train the animals to adapt gradually to their new environment and integrate into the wild.
These measures are part of ongoing efforts to promote biodiversity sustainability and protect endangered species, contributing to the Sultanate’s environmental and developmental goals.
The "Al Reem 1" project signifies a major step in advancing ecotourism and promoting sustainable development in Oman, aligning with the nation’s broader environmental goals.
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