How the Arabian oryx became a symbol of environmental regeneration in Saudi Arabia

Special How the Arabian oryx became a symbol of environmental regeneration in Saudi Arabia
Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, the Arabian oryx is now thriving in protected areas across the region. (Supplied)
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Updated 01 June 2024
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How the Arabian oryx became a symbol of environmental regeneration in Saudi Arabia

How the Arabian oryx became a symbol of environmental regeneration in Saudi Arabia
  • The species was rescued thanks to the rewilding efforts and breeding programs of Saudi conservationists
  • Its numbers had dwindled dramatically over past decades owing to overhunting, drought, and habitat loss

JEDDAH: The Arabian oryx, a desert antelope native to the peninsula, holds immense cultural significance, evidenced by its many ancient rock-art depictions found throughout the region. And yet, this distinctive species was driven to the brink of extinction.

The Arabian oryx has been rescued from oblivion thanks to the proactive rewilding efforts of Saudi Arabia’s conservationists — reversing the devastating toll that years of overhunting and habitat loss has taken on its fragile population.

While once in critical decline, they can now be found in the wild across Arabia, including in Saudi Arabia’s historic northwestern AlUla region and the northeastern reaches of the Kingdom.

Today, the species is not only a symbol of the heritage of Saudi Arabia and the Middle East but emblematic of environmental renewal.

Their numbers had dwindled dramatically over recent decades owing to overhunting, drought, poisoning, and habitat encroachment as agriculture and human settlements expanded, depriving them of grazing pasture.

In 1972, the last wild Arabian oryx was killed by hunters in Oman. Hunters have long prized the animals for their horns and meat.

To save the Arabian oryx from extinction, international organizations launched a scheme to capture wild specimens and establish breeding centers. With their numbers since restored, groups have been reintroduced into their original habitats.

Saudi Arabia has played a crucial role by establishing specialized breeding centers and veterinary facilities for the Arabian oryx. Many have been relocated to protected areas that best mirror their natural habitats, to help them flourish in the wild.

The creation of the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve in 2018 offered an ideal setting in which the species could multiply. A breeding program established by the reserve in 2021 resulted in a 60-fold increase in the Arabian oryx population by early 2024.




Hunters targeted the Arabian oryx for its horns and its meat, leading to a significant decrease in its numbers. (Supplied)

Abdulmajeed Al-Dhaban, deputy executive vice president of operations at the reserve, said the Arabian oryx’s resilience in its harsh desert habitat is because of its heat-reflective white coat and ability to go without water for long periods.

In fact, the species can survive for up to 11 months without drinking water by obtaining fluids from dew and desert plants.

“The reserve’s conservation efforts extend across various fronts, including collaboration with governmental bodies and local communities to develop regulations protecting the Arabian oryx from poaching and illegal trade,” Al-Dhaban told Arab News.

“Educational campaigns raise awareness about conservation, with schools and local institutions actively involved in educating younger generations.

“Scientific research and monitoring are supported to better understand the Arabian oryx’s needs and develop effective protection strategies. Additionally, sustainable development and ecotourism are emphasized to promote wildlife growth and provide income for local communities, encouraging responsible resource management.

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“Partnerships with international organizations further enhance conservation projects, with local communities actively participating in their implementation and training programs.”

Meanwhile, in the Kingdom’s northwest, the Royal Commission for AlUla works closely with its global network of partners, including the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, to secure a future for the Arabian oryx.

“We work with experts in the field to ensure scientifically sound conservation practices, which form the backbone of RCU’s multifaceted approach to protect the Arabian oryx alongside other native species of animals including different species of gazelles and ibex,” Stephen Browne, executive director of wildlife and natural heritage at the RCU, told Arab News.

Last year, the RCU carried out its largest animal release since its reintroduction program was launched in 2019. Held over five phases, 1,580 animals, including Arabian gazelle, sand gazelle, Arabian oryx, and Nubian ibex, were released into AlUla’s nature reserves.

“Since then, we have seen successful births of Arabian oryx in AlUla’s nature reserves as populations grow and take hold in their new environment, proving that our restoration efforts are slowly coming to fruition,” said Browne.

“As more Arabian oryx are released into the wild, and more births recorded, it is hoped that AlUla’s nature reserves can support growing numbers of this important native species.”




Once close to extinction, these graceful creatures now symbolize environmental renewal and the cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. (Supplied)

The revival of the Arabian oryx is a part of a concerted, long-term effort by conservation groups, national rewilding programs, and zoos to establish and slowly increase breeding populations before their eventual reintroduction into the wild.

“The RCU releases Arabian oryx into AlUla’s network of nature reserves as part of its comprehensive rewilding strategy that is helping to restore balance to the natural world and revive once-degraded ecosystems,” said Browne.

“Teams from RCU’s wildlife and natural heritage department work to strict guidelines established by our international partners, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, to ensure all our efforts in the wild are both scientifically sound and follow clear conservation practices.”

Arabian oryx are being reintroduced into AlUla’s nature reserves to help restore the ecological balance. “A total of 250 animals have been released so far,” said Browne. “It is hoped that numbers will increase as populations establish themselves and more wild births are recorded.

“We identify key areas with the correct type and amount of vegetation to support newly-released animals, and to make sure we aren’t over-releasing new populations into one location.

“Arabian oryx have quite specific habitat requirements. They don’t like the steep canyons and mountains found in some of AlUla’s nature reserves and prefer more open, sandy areas.

As a result of releasing the Arabian oryx, we have seen native plants and vegetation rebounding and soil being restored.”

He added: “Our conservation work in AlUla focuses on inclusive initiatives that engage with local people, with community members offered opportunities to train as rangers to keep our vast reserves safe, secure, and monitored.”

The RCU, with its sustainable land-management programs, rehabilitate degraded sites, manage rangelands, and combat desertification, supporting the return of native species like the Arabian oryx.




The Arabian oryx’s heat-reflective white coat and the fact that it requires minimal water make it ideally suited for the harsh desert environment. (Supplied)

Its partnership with the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve Development Authority has strengthened collaboration on wildlife protection and sustainable regeneration.

Restoring natural habitats includes the extensive planting of native species of flora — with seeds from the RCU’s seed bank and plant nursery aiding the long-term recovery of vegetation across the landscape.

The RCU has therefore played a key role in regreening the valleys, wadis, and mountains of AlUla, replenishing the soil, and making the environment more hospitable and fertile for animals.

In AlUla’s nature reserves, populations of Arabian oryx and other animals are monitored using satellite-linked collars and tracking technology. More than 150 rangers, all drawn from the local community, carry out regular patrols to ensure the safety of animal populations.

The people of AlUla have always enjoyed a deep connection with their natural surroundings, said Browne. “Our ongoing work to regenerate AlUla and restore much-needed balance to natural areas aims to reinvigorate this long-standing and important bond with nature.”

The RCU prioritizes ecological awareness and engagement, from the work of conservation rangers and efforts to regreen AlUla’s nature reserves with native plant species, to educating farmers and locals about the benefits that wild animal populations can bring to the ecosystem.

Ultimately, said Browne, the RCU aims to revive and maintain the natural environment for future generations.

“We share a deep respect for the traditional practices and ideas that have shaped the environmental views and principles of our community.”

 

Rewilding Arabia
Return of the leopard is at the heart of plans to conserve and regenerate Saudi Arabia’s landscapes and wildlife

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Saudi defense minister meets Swedish counterpart

Saudi defense minister meets Swedish counterpart
Updated 22 November 2024
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Saudi defense minister meets Swedish counterpart

Saudi defense minister meets Swedish counterpart
  • Discussions focused on bolstering cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Sweden

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s minister of defense, Prince Khalid bin Salman, met Johan Stuart, minister of state at the Swedish Prime Minister’s office, in Riyadh on Thursday.

They discussed ways in which relations and cooperation between their countries might be enhanced, along with other issues of mutual interest, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Other Saudi officials present during the discussions included Lt. Gen. Fayyad Al-Ruwaili, chief of the general staff of the Kingdom’s armed forces, and Hisham bin Abdulaziz bin Saif, director general of the defense minister’s office.

The Swedish minister was accompanied by a delegation that included Bjorn Kalvakov, charge d’affaires of the Swedish Embassy in Riyadh, and Sophie Becker, deputy head of the Middle East and North Africa department at Sweden’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.


Italian food festival highlights nation’s rich taste and culinary flavors

Italian food festival highlights nation’s rich taste and culinary flavors
Updated 22 November 2024
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Italian food festival highlights nation’s rich taste and culinary flavors

Italian food festival highlights nation’s rich taste and culinary flavors

JEDDAH: The Italian Consulate General in Jeddah hosted on Wednesday night a unique event celebrating the richness and uniqueness of Italian products and flavors on the occasion of the ninth edition of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World. 

The event is being celebrated all over the globe from Nov. 16-22 by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Italian Ministry of Agriculture as part of their drive to promote the beauty and quality of Italian gastronomy.

Leonardo Costa, the Italian consul general in Jeddah, said: “We are glad to hold this Italian food street festival in the framework of the 9th Week of Italian Cuisine in the World celebrating Italian food culture. The theme for this year’s events is ‘Mediterranean Diet: Traditional Cuisine and Healthy Food,’ which is not a list of healthy food but a lifestyle.”

He added: “All the communities of the Mediterranean Sea share the same idea of hospitality and friendship. All concepts that fully applied to the great generosity and hospitality to the Saudi people and their way of conceiving food.”

Held at Al-Basateen Compound, the Italian Consulate General in Jeddah set up an elaborate street food scene around the pool area, ranging from big local Italian brands from shops, supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, and hotels in Jeddah with the attendance of guests drawn from the diplomatic corps, journalists, Italian expatriates, Saudi guests, the business community, and other selected food enthusiasts.

The festival contained multiple food stalls displayed by the sponsors and participants such as Danub, Lallo restaurant, Assila hotel, Margherita KSA, Montana water by Sharbatly, Ferrero, Loacker, and other brands, where everyone showcased different distinctive Italian delicacies.

Music was also played for the guests by DJ Ahmed Can.

Saudi businessman Mohammed Al-Zahrani — who became fascinated by Italian coffee during his visits to Catanzaro, the capital of the Calabria region in Italy, is the founder of Dell’Oro Store. He told Arab News how he turned his passion into a business.

“I am glad to be part of the ninth Week of Italian Cuisine in the World for the first time, and I am here to promote our coffee,” he added.


Spanish aerobatic pilot Castor Fantoba puts on a spectacular air display in Riyadh

Spanish aerobatic pilot Castor Fantoba puts on a spectacular air display in Riyadh
Updated 21 November 2024
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Spanish aerobatic pilot Castor Fantoba puts on a spectacular air display in Riyadh

Spanish aerobatic pilot Castor Fantoba puts on a spectacular air display in Riyadh
  • World-class pilot soars high at Sand & Fun event

RIYADH: A Spanish world-class powered aerobatic pilot on Tuesday put on a thrilling aerobatic display filled with loops, rolls, spins, dives and climbs at the Sand & Fun event at Al-Thumamah airport, Riyadh. 

Organized by the Saudi General Aviation, the event runs from Nov. 19-23. 

Castor Fantoba’s performance was one of 10 SkyVentures at Sand & Fun’s series of airshows.

In a sitdown interview with Arab News, Fantoba described how his passion for aviation began and what it takes to become a world-class aerobatic pilot. 

As a child, Fantoba lived in the Spanish region of Navarra, where he watched small planes flying in the sky.

“Every child is looking into the blue ... Near my village there was an older field and eventually there were small planes doing tours and I was always stuck to the glass of the car, looking into the window trying to see if there was something around. I think it was that simple thing that marked my life.”

After secondary school, Fantoba developed a deeper admiration for aviation, which led to him pursuing a career as an engineer. 

Fantoba graduated as an aeronautical engineer and gained his extensive flying experience in areas such as aerial advertising, skywriting, crop-dusting and water-bombing.

He then decided to take a different route and become a pilot, after working for several years in aircraft maintenance. 

Today, Fantoba is an airline captain qualified to fly Boeing 737, 757 and 767s, powered aerobatics in the world-renowned Sukhoi Su-26M and is also a certified flight instructor for ultralight motorized gliders, private pilot licence training, and powered aerobatics.

To prepare for his airshows, Fantoba has a precise regimen of physical training and technical training coached by retired pilot and former member of the Soviet and Russian national aerobatic team, Nikolai Nikituk, who is widely recognized as one of the best pilots in the history of aerobatics. 

“He (Nikituk) is the one who is pushing us and modeling us to arrive at that point in which we will compete and try to win.”

During airshows, pilots take turns performing and on some days the wind could work against them. In moments like those, endurance is key, a practice taught by Nikituk.

“If you control your stress, you get focused and you don’t get nervous and lose energy.” 

Aerobatic pilots draw geometrical figures in the sky using a unique composition of sequences. When performing advanced aerial maneuvers, pilots can experience a range of gravitational forces.

Aerobatic pilots are trained to handle these forces by tensing their muscles to maintain blood flow to the brain and avoid blacking out.

Fantoba said dealing with negative Gz force, when pushing a plane over into a dive, took him 10 years of practice to perfect it. 

“After 10 years of training, (previously) I was not able to get the good rotation or transition, but this year I got it so this for me is the most satisfying.”

To avoid problems in equilibrium, prevent dizziness and fade-out, Fantoba said a lot mental focus, physical conditioning, and training are required. 

“You need to do exactly what you are told to do in a sequence. A sequence is composed of about 14 figures that are very complex with rotations in all directions.” 

Fantoba spoke of an experience when he blacked out during a positive Gz flight. “I remember I was beginning a training camp and I was really relaxed during the beginning of the season ... I was not pushing my body … I remember I was going up and then a voice was calling me ‘Castor, do you hear me?’ (on the radio) and I saw all blue and suddenly realized I was flying.”

Pilots begin with 10 points and lose 1 point per 5 degrees of deviation, so precision is vital to a successful airshow. Pilots usually score an average five points, but Fantoba’s attention to detail allowed him to score 8.3 points in the previous World Championship. 

Fantoba encourages individuals to try flying. “With normal health, you can fly ... you have fantastic aircraft here in Saudi Arabia … call them (organizations) and ask them ‘how can I become a pilot?’ It’s easy and you will discover an absolute new world.”

“Aerobatics and generally all air sports, it does not matter if you are a man or woman, it’s based on skill … in aerobatics we do not have separation.”

Fantoba has numerous achievements to his credit. 

He was a runner-up in the 2022 World Team Championship, runner-up in freestyle at the 2019 World Championship; three bronze medals at the 2017 World Cup; double bronze medal in the 2015 World Cup, bronze medal in Classic and Freestyle in the 2016 European Championship, Absolute European Champion 2014, and nine times Absolute Spanish Champion.

He has been officially recognized as a high level athlete by the Higher Sports Council since 2005. He has bagged more than 50 medals in his sporting career, six medals in a single top-category competition (European Aerobatic Championships 2014). He has won 30 FAI (world governing body for air sports) medals, including six golds.


Man arrested for transporting nine border security violators in Jazan

Man arrested for transporting nine border security violators in Jazan
Updated 21 November 2024
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Man arrested for transporting nine border security violators in Jazan

Man arrested for transporting nine border security violators in Jazan

JAZAN: Authorities in Jazan arrested a citizen for transporting nine border security violators of Yemeni and Ethiopian nationalities. Legal procedures were carried out, and the violators were handed over to the authorities before being transferred to the Public Prosecution.

Authorities have warned that anyone who facilitates the entry of border security violators into the Kingdom, transports them, provides them with shelter, or offers any form of assistance or service, will face severe penalties. These include imprisonment of up to 15 years, fines of up to SR1 million ($266,318), confiscation of any vehicles or properties used in the offense, and public defamation.

Meanwhile, while enforcing environmental regulations in the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve, field patrols of the Special Forces for Environmental Security arrested a man for illegal hunting in a prohibited area. He was found with an air rifle and three trapped wild animals. Legal measures were taken, and he was referred to the authorities for further action.


Ehsan charity empowers non-profit organizations

Ehsan charity empowers non-profit organizations
Updated 21 November 2024
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Ehsan charity empowers non-profit organizations

Ehsan charity empowers non-profit organizations

RIYADH: Workshops arranged by Ehsan, the national platform for charitable work, are helping empower non-profit organizations.

The initiative will ensure leaders keep pace with the governance of charitable work, with sessions aimed at developing methods to plan and implement projects.

The events are part of Ehsan’s efforts to increase the knowledge and develop the work of its non-governmental partner organizations. They align with its vision of maximizing the impact of projects, developing technical solutions, strengthening partnerships and empowering the non-profit sector.

The first workshops were launched in the Hail, Al-Jouf, Central and Asir regions, and Jeddah Governorate. More than 500 non-governmental organizations took part.