Arabian Oryx Returns to Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve

Northern Borders, Saudi Arabia — In a striking conservation success, a young Arabian oryx has been safely spotted in its original habitat within the valleys and plains of the Taysiyah area in the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve, located just south of the historical village of Lina in the Northern Borders region.

Environmental Restoration Efforts Bear Fruit

Known locally as Al-Wadhihi, the Arabian oryx had vanished from the region for decades due to overhunting, habitat loss, and environmental degradation. Its return and natural breeding mark a major environmental milestone. This achievement contributes to biodiversity restoration, reinforces ecological balance, and supports the revival of species once declared extinct in the wild.

The oryx’s reappearance is a direct result of long-term environmental efforts under the guidance of Saudi Arabia’s conservation authorities. These include protection programs, repopulation initiatives, and habitat rehabilitation inside the reserve.

A Sanctuary for Endangered Species

The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve spans 91,500 square kilometers, making it the second-largest royal reserve in Saudi Arabia. It offers a secure and diverse desert habitat for various species. Besides Arabian oryx, the reserve hosts gazelles, red-necked ostriches, and a wide array of resident and migratory birds.

Many bird species use the area as a resting point before continuing their migratory paths. Meanwhile, the reserve also shelters endangered desert plants, positioning it as a critical area for Saudi Arabia’s broader biodiversity goals under Vision 2030.

Nature’s Comeback in Northern Saudi Arabia

The natural return of the Arabian oryx underscores the success of strategic conservation efforts in the Kingdom. It also demonstrates the vital role of royal reserves in protecting wildlife and preserving the Kingdom’s rich natural heritage.