Dubai to use Burj Khalifa to save rare species

The Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO), in collaboration with Dubai Crown Prince Office, organised on Wednesday a press conference to attract attention to Freedom Conservation’s attempt to set a new world record by flying an eagle from the top of the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, in Dubai. The attempt aims to increase public awareness on the plight of endangered animals.

The press conference was attended by Jacques-Olivier Travers, founder of Freedom Conservation, Ronald Menzel, co founder of Freedom Conservation, Mohammed Al Muhairi of Dubai Crown Prince Office, Aboud Khederchah of Sony and Noora Al Mansoori of Government of Dubai Media Office.

Starting the conference, Noora Al Mansoori stated that Dubai’s hosting this event initiates from the emirate’s enthusiasm to protect environment and endangered species.

In his speech, Jacques-Olivier Travers stated that on March 14 Freedom Conservation will attempt to set a new world record by flying a white-tailed eagle named Darshan from the top of Burj Khalifa.

Ronald Menzel said: “Flying the eagle from the top of Burj Khalifa, one of the world’s most iconic structures,  will attract attention to our campaign and programs. We hope to record a new world record”.

Mohammed Al Muhairi from the Dubai Crown Prince Office said: “Preparation took over 42 days. The team produced a comprehensive plan. The attempt faces many challenges, but we have studied all the probabilities. We will install a cutting edge technology action camera on the eagle, and we will provide live streaming via several TV channels in addition to special screens in Dubai Mall.

Aboud Khederchah from Sony said: “We have developed this camera especially for this purpose and to fit the eagle’s movement and speed that reach about 200km per hour”.

The charity Freedom Conservation works in collaboration with a leading conservation initiative, SOS - Save our Species and United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) to raise awareness of the plight of endangered animals, many of which are recorded on the IUCN Red List of Endangered species.

Birds of prey are rooted in the cultural heritage of the UAE – the golden falcon is the nation symbol and Dubai supports international effort in protection of threatened species. Despite its rapid development as a major regional business centre, Dubai has long recognised its responsibility towards preserving its environment, mainly its unique desert habitat. Over the past three decades, many natural reserves, along with several laws, have been established to protect threatened animals. The UAE has always been active in conservation of endangered animals like creating over 15 natural reserves around the country and planning a number of rehabilitation programmes.
 

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