Banyan Tree Al Wadi Nature Reserve Receives First Set of Resident Wildlife

Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, 12 April 2010 - Ras Al Khaimah’s latest and most exclusive resort, Banyan Tree Al Wadi released their first set of animals, consisting of 18 Arabian gazelles, eight Reem gazelles and four Arabian oryx, into the resort’s 60-hecture nature reserve.

This milestone event was inaugurated by H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, son of H.H Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi said,“ We are very pleased to open a nature reserve in one of the most ecologically significant areas in the emirate. The reintroduction of indigenous wildlife in the nature reserve would help in the conservation efforts as well as provide people an opportunity to visit and observe the animals in their natural desert settings. For Ras Al Khaimah, sustainability has always been a guiding factor in its development pursuits and this unique project reflects our commitment to preservation of our biodiversity and natural heritage.”

Pascal Eppink, General Manager, Banyan Tree Al Wadi, also commented, “It is very heartening to see these animals released into their natural habitat. This is the first of several projects that we are planning to implement at Banyan Tree Al Wadi, as part of our company’s belief and philosophy in corporate social responsibility governance.”

Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed bin Saqr Al Qasimi and Dr. Saif Al Ghais, Executive Director of the RAK Environmental Protection and Development Authority were also present on the occasion.