In early October 2026, 35 individuals of endangered species were released into the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Reserve in northwestern Saudi Arabia: ten Arabian oryx, five red-necked ostriches and twenty Asian bustards. This is not merely a symbolic gesture, but part of systematic work to restore ecosystems that for decades had been losing key inhabitants due to hunting and landscape change.
The reserve, with an area of about 24,5 thousand square kilometres, encompasses diverse desert and coastal zones. Species historically inhabited this area, many of which have disappeared or greatly declined. The ReWild Arabia programme, launched by the authorities, aims to return up to 23 historically present species to the region, and already 14 of them have been successfully reintroduced. The release of 2026 continues this line, strengthening genetic diversity and restoring food chains.
The Arabian oryx, once nearly exterminated, is now returning to its native steppes and helping to control vegetation. The red-necked ostrich, chosen as the closest analogue of the extinct Arabian ostrich, plays the role of a large herbivore influencing soil structure and seed dispersal. The Asian bustard, critically vulnerable according to international assessments, needs protected areas for nesting and migration. Together these animals form a more resilient ecosystem, where each species fulfils its role in the cycle of matter and energy.
The National Centre for Wildlife Development and the reserve administration carry out not only releases but also monitoring: animals are fitted with tags, and their survival and adaptation are tracked. Such measures make it possible to adjust strategies in real time and avoid the mistakes of past reintroductions. In parallel, ecotourism is developing, which gives local communities economic incentives to preserve nature rather than exploit it.
Such projects show how targeted efforts by the state can reverse the trend of biodiversity loss even in harsh desert conditions. Restoring populations requires time and constant attention, but already now it is clear that the desert is beginning to regain its former fullness of life.
Every successful release reminds us: nature is capable of recovering if humans stop being merely consumers and become partners in this process.
