Zoological Society of San Diego Joins Forces with Al Ain Zoo to Build Wildlife Park

May 5, 2008

The Zoological Society of San Diego has entered into an agreement with representatives of the Abu Dhabi government, which manages the Al Ain Zoo and Aquarium Public Institution (AZAPI). The agreement joins both organizations together in an effort to create a 2,000-acre wildlife park in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The new wildlife reserve will be called Dowh Al Ain. The collaborative effort joins the animal care experience and operational expertise of the Zoological Society with the resources and conservation record of Abu Dhabi. The agreement is the latest collaboration in a long list of conservation partnerships maintained by the well-known San Diego-based conservation organization.

"We are excited to announce this new partnership," said Douglas Myers, chief executive officer for the Zoological Society. "Over the past decade, we have formalized partnerships with many conservation and zoological organizations throughout the world to build a network of support for international efforts to preserve endangered animals, sustain viable populations of these species, and improve animal care in captive situations."

The relationship with the Al Ain Zoo is expected to span more than a decade as the two organizations work together to create a wildlife park that allows travelers to the historic city of Al Ain to get closer to species native to African, Arabian, and Asian deserts. Zoological Society experts will share their experience in the development and maintenance of animal habitats while both organizations work together on conservation and outreach efforts in the region.

"We are happy to welcome on board the San Diego Zoo, which brings a wealth of knowledge and years of experience to this project," said He Majid Al Mansouri, managing director of Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort. "The Al Ain Zoo has been a popular attraction to people from across the emirates, providing visitors with hours of enjoyment and the opportunity to interact with animals from all over the region, and this transformation will enrich their experience further."

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