AlUla advances conservation of critically endangered Arabian leopard

SPA

AlUla, Saudi Arabia, February 10, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) is leading efforts to protect the critically endangered Arabian leopard and restore its natural habitats through scientific and field-based conservation programs.

Rock inscriptions across AlUla’s mountains and valleys document the historical presence of the Arabian leopard and its symbolic role in maintaining ecological balance on the Arabian Peninsula. The species faces threats from urban and agricultural expansion, overgrazing, poaching, and illegal wildlife trade.

Central to conservation initiatives is the Arabian Leopard Conservation Breeding Centre, the only active facility worldwide dedicated to breeding Arabian leopards for preservation purposes. The AlUla Wildlife Rehabilitation Project aims to reintroduce the species to its natural environment, support natural prey populations, and restore vegetation cover as part of an integrated ecosystem.

International Arabian Leopard Day, observed annually on February 10, highlights the urgent need to protect the species and emphasizes conservation efforts at national and international levels. Through these programs, RCU seeks to safeguard the Arabian leopard while promoting harmony between nature and local communities.