SPA — The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve has announced the successful birth of its first Nubian ibexes. This event marks a major milestone in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to protect endangered native species. The births are part of the reserve’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Program, which aims to reintroduce 23 species that once lived across the Kingdom.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the Nubian ibex as endangered. Fewer than 5,000 mature ibexes remain in the wild worldwide. Therefore, this Nubian ibex birth in Saudi reserve moment is a key step in global conservation.

Expanding Biodiversity in Royal Reserves

“This is the fourth successful species breeding project after the Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, and mountain gazelle,” said Andrew Zaloumis, CEO of the Reserve’s Development Authority. He emphasized that these efforts reflect the Kingdom’s strong commitment to restoring native wildlife and supporting biodiversity.

The reserve spans 24,500 square kilometers. It includes landscapes ranging from volcanic fields to the Red Sea coast. It also overlaps with major national developments, such as NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and AlUla. It contains over half of Saudi Arabia’s known biodiversity, spread across 15 different ecosystems.

The reserve plays a central role in achieving Vision 2030 biodiversity goals. Its conservation work shows how protected areas can restore species and build climate-resilient habitats. With strong national support and partnerships, the reserve continues to set new standards in wildlife recovery.

 

 

THE SAUDI STANDARD’S VIEW: Ibex Birth Validates Saudi Arabia’s Biodiversity Revival Strategy

The recent Nubbirth of a Nubian ibex the Saudi reserve is a powerful sign of Saudi Arabia’s growing leadership in wildlife conservation. It reflects the Kingdom’s active role in restoring ecosystems as part of Vision 2030’s environmental objectives.

  • The Nubian ibex is the fourth species to be successfully bred under the Wildlife Rehabilitation Program. Earlier milestones include the Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, and mountain gazelle. These results highlight Saudi Arabia’s ability to protect endangered animals through focused breeding and habitat restoration.
  • The reserve’s location near key gigaprojects—like NEOM and the Red Sea Project—strengthens the link between conservation and sustainable tourism. As a result, the reserve boosts ecological health and economic opportunity.
  • Covering 24,500 square kilometers and holding more than 50% of the nation’s biodiversity, the reserve acts as a model for nature-based development. It also supports Public Investment Fund projects by protecting the ecosystems they depend on.
  • The reserve shows how science, habitat protection, and species management can work together. These efforts help slow biodiversity loss, limit climate risks, and build long-term resilience across Saudi Arabia.

In summary, the birth of the Nubian ibex is more than a conservation milestone. It proves that Saudi Arabia is turning environmental goals into action. Through its reserves and Vision 2030 strategy, the Kingdom is creating a more sustainable and biologically rich future.

 

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