TABUK: Arabian oryx have returned to the NEOM Nature Reserve for the first time in 100 years following the release of four wildlife species as part of a resettlement program.

The release of Arabian oryx, Nubian ibex, Arabian sand gazelle and mountain gazelle on Thursday comes as part of NEOM’s efforts to realize its vision for sustainability and environmental conservation, and is part of a program being carried out in cooperation with the National Center for Wildlife.

A NEOM team helped transport the animals from the NCW in Riyadh in October to the nature reserve. The animals were given time to adapt to the new environment before being released.

The nature reserve covers more than 25,000 sq km and provides an ecosystem that will encourage biodiversity in the region.

The NCW is aiming to increase numbers of any wildlife species listed as endangered under the Saudi Green initiative.

The reserve will be home to one of the biggest wildlife restoration programs in the world, and will allow visitors to learn about NEOM’s programs for the development and rehabilitation of vegetation and wildlife.