SALALAH: A scientific workshop on updating the Arabian Leopard Conservation Strategy (2025–2030), organised by the Directorate-General of Environment in Dhofar Governorate, concluded in Salalah with a set of recommendations to strengthen national and regional efforts to protect the endangered Arabian leopard and preserve its natural habitats.
The workshop emphasised the importance of renewing strategic objectives based on the achievements of the previous plan (2014–2025). It also proposed the formation of a national committee, chaired by the Environment Authority and comprising relevant institutions, to oversee the implementation of the new strategy and ensure coordination between stakeholders.
Among the key recommendations was the establishment of a specialised research centre for the Arabian leopard in Dhofar Governorate to serve as a scientific reference point supporting studies, field monitoring and conservation efforts. Participants also called for updating environmental legislation to provide stronger protection for the Arabian leopard, its prey and its natural habitats, as well as for expanding nature reserves across Oman.
The workshop further highlighted the need to train and qualify national cadres in collaboration with the Arabian Leopard Fund in Saudi Arabia and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), ensuring knowledge exchange and long-term sustainability of conservation initiatives.
The four-day event, held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Salalah, brought together experts and specialists from within and outside Oman. Discussions focused on evaluating the previous strategy, refining protection mechanisms and developing forward-looking conservation programmes for the next phase.
The programme concluded with a field visit to the Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve, where participants observed ongoing conservation work under the Arabian Leopard Conservation Project, reaffirming Oman’s steadfast national commitment to preserving biodiversity and safeguarding the Arabian leopard — a symbol of the nation’s natural and cultural heritage. - ONA
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