Qatar’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change reaffirmed its target of increasing protected terrestrial and marine areas to 30% by 2030 to safeguard natural habitats and biodiversity. It said terrestrial reserves currently cover around 25% of the country’s land area.
The ministry outlined its wildlife conservation efforts in a statement marking World Animal Day on 4 October, including the provision of suitable environments for native species to breed.
Khalid Jumaa Al-Muhannadi, Director of the Wildlife Development Department, said reserves provide animals with food, shelter and breeding opportunities while protecting their habitats from encroachment. Breeding and care programmes include Arabian oryx, sand gazelles and ostriches, alongside reintroductions into suitable natural environments.
The ministry urged the public to avoid chasing, hunting or disturbing wild animals and to comply with laws governing hunting and the protection of nature reserves.