Al Ain: Al Ain Zoo, a prominent wildlife conservation institution, has recently become a member of the Eurasian Regional Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EARAZA). The membership was granted during the EARAZA 2023 conference held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, from May 12 to 15, 2023. By joining EARAZA, Al Ain Zoo further strengthens Abu Dhabi’s commitment to preserving endangered species, optimising biodiversity, and expanding global collaborations in the field of wildlife conservation.
EARAZA, established in 1994, serves as an association that promotes cooperation and mutual support among zoological institutions in Central Asia. Coordinated by the Moscow Zoo, EARAZA organizes annual conferences for its members to exchange knowledge and foster partnerships.
Al Ain Zoo’s journey towards EARAZA membership began when it hosted a delegation from the Moscow Zoo in November 2022. Following fruitful discussions on wildlife protection and cooperation, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs facilitated Al Ain Zoo’s request for EARAZA membership.
During the EARAZA 2023 conference, Al Ain Zoo participated virtually, delivering a presentation to the members in a closed session. The presentation showcased their conservation efforts and strategies. After thorough deliberations, the participants unanimously approved Al Ain Zoo’s full membership, recognising its valuable contributions to wildlife conservation.
Al Ain Zoo now joins the ranks of renowned zoos from Azerbaijan, China, Germany, Russia, Tajikistan, and Turkey within EARAZA. The conference provided an opportunity for more than 35 institutions, 156 delegates, and 70 association members to come together and address challenges faced by zoos in the region, particularly in the context of recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.