Mudhaibi – Sixty Arabian sand gazelles, known locally as Reem gazelle, have been released into the wild at Wadi Mareer in the Sharqiyah Sands as part of Oman’s efforts to restore the native species to its natural and historical habitats.

The release marks the second phase of the Al Reem 2 project, implemented by the Environment Authority’s Directorate General of Biodiversity Conservation and Natural Reserves in cooperation with the Environment Department in North Sharqiyah governorate.

The release ceremony was held in Mudhaibi under the patronage of Mahmoud bin Yahya Al Dhahli, Governor of North Sharqiyah, and in the presence of Dr Abdullah bin Ali Al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority.

Zahran bin Sulaiman Al Abdulsalam, Director General of Biodiversity Conservation and Natural Reserves, said the Reem gazelle is an indigenous wild species closely linked to Oman’s desert environment and adapted to its natural conditions.

He said the authority’s conservation programme covers protection, monitoring, breeding, veterinary care and rehabilitation, before animals are returned to suitable natural habitats.

The Al Reem 2 project follows Al Reem 1 in Dhofar governorate, expanding the reintroduction programme to North Sharqiyah.

“This release into an open natural environment outside designated reserves represents an important step,” Al Abdulsalam said.

The gazelles will now be monitored scientifically to track their movements, health, adaptation and reproduction. He stressed that the project’s success would be measured not only by the number of animals released, but by their ability to settle and spread in the coming years.

Wadi Mareer, located between North Sharqiyah and Al Wusta governorates, was selected for its open desert landscape and vegetation, including Ghaf trees that provide habitat and natural resources for wildlife.

Monitoring of the gazelles and their habitat will continue in cooperation with relevant authorities and local communities.

Al Abdulsalam also praised residents of North Sharqiyah and communities around the release site for helping protect the animals and preserve their habitat