Emirates Park Zoo & Resort joins global conservation effort to rescue endangered wildlife in Cambodia

Khaleej Times

11-04-2025

Emirates Park Zoo & Resort (EPZR), one of the UAE's leading wildlife destinations, has strengthened its commitment to global conservation through a strategic partnership with Wildlife Alliance. Launched in early 2024, the collaboration supports the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre (PTWRC) in Cambodia, which focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing wildlife affected by illegal trade and habitat loss.
Since the beginning of 2024, Wildlife Alliance's efforts at PTWRC have resulted in the rescue of over 550 animals - including two elephant calves, pangolins and other vulnerable species. EPZR's support includes proceeds from its 'Made in the Zoo' merchandise initiative, which contributes directly to Wildlife Alliance's operations in Cambodia. The initiative also raises awareness among visitors by promoting the idea of 'purchasing with a purpose'.
"Conservation is a shared responsibility that transcends borders," said Dr Walid Shabaan, director of Emirates Park Zoo & Resort. "Our partnership with Wildlife Alliance allows us to bring global conservation efforts closer to home, encouraging our visitors to engage with wildlife protection on a personal level. Through education and outreach, we aim to foster a culture of environmental stewardship and inspire the next generation to protect our planet's biodiversity."
Among the many impactful stories is that of Chanam, an elephant calf found alone on farmland in October 2024 after villagers attempted to drive away an elephant herd. He was rescued and provided with urgent care. Another elephant, Lomphat, was found in Cambodia's Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary with a severe snare wound on her front right leg. Thanks to advanced therapies, she has since gained 24kg and is recovering steadily.
In January 2025, both calves were relocated to a specially designed enclosure to ensure their safety and comfort. In another success, Chhouk - a disabled elephant rescued in 2007 - received a lighter prosthetic shoe in September 2024, reducing its weight from 20kg to 15kg and significantly improving his mobility.
The partnership also supports the care of rescued pangolins. Three young pangopups - Srey Roth, Srey Pov and Mimi - rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, are currently receiving specialised care in PTWRC's nursery. Two older pangolins have begun weaning and are feeding on ants, termites and their eggs, progressing well in their rehabilitation.
Education remains central to EPZR's conservation efforts. Inspired by Cambodia's Kouprey Express Mobile Environmental Education Project, the only initiative of its kind in the country, EPZR has developed interactive conservation programmes, including on-site talks, workshops, and digital outreach through social media and live sessions.
The Kouprey Express has reached more than 51,000 students across 55 schools since January 2024. It has also trained over 588 teachers (68 per cent of whom are women) and distributed more than 60,000 educational materials, reinforcing the importance of environmental responsibility among youth.
Locally, EPZR collaborates with universities to provide students with hands-on experience in conservation research, sustainability projects and internships. The zoo also runs community outreach programmes in partnership with Abu Dhabi Municipality and the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, delivering interactive educational activities and environmental projects for the wider public.
EPZR has been working with Wildlife Alliance since 2019. The ongoing collaboration enables the zoo to align global conservation with its local outreach and educational efforts, enhancing best practices in animal welfare, sustainability and community engagement.
Through this partnership, Emirates Park Zoo & Resort is cementing its role in the UAE's growing conservation movement. The exchange of knowledge and expertise between EPZR and Wildlife Alliance enhances best practices in animal welfare, conservation management, and community engagement - connecting visitors with global initiatives and inspiring lasting action for wildlife protection.