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As part of its commitment to environment and wildlife conservation and educating the public on the UAE’s natural environment, Al Ain Zoo is showcasing the Ghaf Tree, an integral part of the UAE’s heritage during the Arabian Endangered Species Month campaign launched earlier this month.
As well as its ability to grow in dry climates, high temperatures, and withstand long periods without water, the Ghaf Tree traditionally brought people together during their travels providing them with shade and shelter. It has an integrated root system reaching 30 metres underground, allowing it to access moisture found deep in the sand and is high in mineral content, making it an excellent form of nutrition for both humans and animals.
Commenting on this initiative, H.E. Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri, Director General of Al Ain Zoo, said:
"Al Ain Zoo is highly involved in programmes and initiatives which focus on environment conservation. We are consistently working towards educating the public on the importance of preserving the environment. By showcasing the Ghaf Tree we deliver a message that will raise awareness on the importance of preserving native desert species, highly focusing on the tree that has proven its ability to survive and provide for all of us despite our harsh weather conditions."
“Al Ain Zoo has recently begun replacing its current plants and trees, with ones that are native to the UAE, including the area surrounding the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre and this initiative comes in line with the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his commitment to the conservation of our natural environment.”
Al Ain Zoo invited all heads of departments to participate in planting 50 endangered Ghaf Trees in an area at the zoo called the “Ghaf Oasis.” Director General H.E. Ghanim Al Hajeri planted the first tree, followed by the various department heads. As part of our commitment to raise awareness and educate the public about environmental conservation, Al Ain Zoo also distributed 150 Ghaf Trees to zoo visitors to plant in their homes.
The Ghaf Tree was previously used in several industries including construction, it is highly used for medicinal purposes including the treatment of scorpion and snake bites, as well as rheumatism, coughs, the common cold, asthma, dysentery, bronchitis, and eye infections.
Al Ain Zoo is located on the UAE-Oman border and is a short drive from UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah and minutes away from Buraimi city in Oman. Al Ain Zoo is one of the city’s leading attractions. Visitors can also venture to the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, the former palace of His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, which tells the UAE’s cultural story prior to its dramatic development and Jabel Hafeet which rises at 1245 meters with enchanting views of the city in addition to Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain National Museum and other tourist destinations.
Al Ain Zoo’s is opened daily from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
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