Al Hefaiyah Conservation Centre
The Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre is a wildlife sanctuary and visitor center located in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, dedicated to the preservation of endangered mountain species. Opened in 2016, it features landscape enclosures designed to house fauna in their natural environments, playing a crucial role in conservation efforts for the region's unique biodiversity.
Key Facts
- ›The center covers an area of 12 km² (4.6 sq MI).
- ›It was opened in 2016.
- ›The center houses approximately 30 animals, including critically endangered Arabian leopards.
- ›It was recognized as the Middle East Architect educational project of the year in 2016.
- ›The Al Hefaiyah Lake project was unveiled in March 2024.
- ›It features landscape enclosures for mountain fauna and indoor facilities for smaller species.
Arabian Leopard, Arabian Wolf, Arabian Tahr
- Breeding Centre for Endangered Arabian Wildlife (BCEAW)
About Al Hefaiyah Conservation Centre
Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre
The Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre is a significant wildlife reserve and visitor centre located west of Kalba in the Emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. Established and opened in 2016, it functions as a 12 km² (4.6 sq mi) sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of endangered mountain species native to the region.
Facilities and Fauna
The centre features a series of landscape enclosures designed to replicate the natural habitats of mountain fauna. Many of the species housed here, including the critically endangered Arabian leopard, Arabian wolf, and Arabian tahr, were transferred from Sharjah's Breeding Centre for Endangered Arabian Wildlife (BCEAW). These animals are indigenous to areas within the Al-Hajar Mountains. In addition to outdoor exhibits, smaller species such as snakes, lizards, and nocturnal hedgehogs are housed indoors.
Visitor Experience and Conservation Impact
Visitors can explore the centre using golf buggies with guides, offering an immersive experience to observe animals in environments that mimic their natural surroundings. The Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre has been recognized for its contributions to conservation, receiving the Middle East Architect educational project of the year award in 2016. Beyond its primary conservation mission, the centre also hosts art exhibitions, educational programs, and fundraisers, aiming to foster greater public awareness and support for wildlife preservation. The unveiling of the Al Hefaiyah Lake project in March 2024 further signifies a commitment to expanding conservation and visitor-focused initiatives in the area.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre located?
The Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre is situated west of the coastal town of Kalba, within the Emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
When did the Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre open?
The Conservation Centre officially opened its doors in 2016.
What is the size of the Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre?
The wildlife sanctuary and visitor centre spans an area of 12 square kilometers, which is equivalent to 4.6 square miles.
What notable animals can be found at the Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre?
The center is home to several animals, including Arabian leopards, which are believed to be extinct in the wild in the UAE. Other outdoor animals include rock hyrax, Arabian and goitered gazelles, caracal, Arabian oryx, tahr, Arabian wolf, and striped hyena.
What is the conservation focus of the Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre?
The centre is a major step forward in the conservation of endangered mountain species in the UAE. Many species housed there were previously at Sharjah's Breeding Centre for Endangered Arabian Wildlife and are indigenous to the regions of Wadi Al Helo, Khor Fakkan, and Kalba in the Al-Hajar Mountains.
What facilities are available for visitors?
Visitors can explore the outdoor areas via golf buggies accompanied by guides, observing animals in their natural habitats. The centre also hosts art exhibitions, educational programs, and other events.
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