United Arab Emirates national animal — the Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx)
Official National SymbolAfrica · Mammal

What is United Arab Emirates's National Animal?

The Arabian Oryx

Quick Species Overview

Common Name:Arabian Oryx
Scientific Classification:Oryx leucoryx
Continent / Region:Africa
Conservation Status:Endangered

Why is the Arabian Oryx the National Animal of United Arab Emirates?

The Arabian Oryx holds the position of national animal in United Arab Emirates because of how closely it is tied to the country's landscape and identity. Once extinct in the wild, the Arabian oryx was reintroduced from zoo populations. It is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and conservation programmes now fund habitat protection under its name.

Across national holidays, sovereign heraldry, and public monuments, the Arabian Oryx stands as a beloved guardian representing the courage and identity of United Arab Emirates.

Key Wildlife & Ecological Facts

1

Its scientific name is Oryx leucoryx.

2

The Arabian Oryx is a mammal recorded across United Arab Emirates's national parks and protected areas, and United Arab Emirates uses it as a shorthand for the country's natural heritage.

3

It is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and conservation programmes now fund habitat protection under its name.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the official national animal of United Arab Emirates?

The official national animal of United Arab Emirates is the Arabian Oryx (scientific name: Oryx leucoryx).

Why was the Arabian Oryx chosen as the symbol of United Arab Emirates?

The Arabian Oryx holds the position of national animal in United Arab Emirates because of how closely it is tied to the country's landscape and identity. Once extinct in the wild, the Arabian oryx was reintroduced from zoo populations. It is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and conservation programmes now fund habitat protection under its name.

Is the Arabian Oryx endangered?

The conservation status of the Arabian Oryx is currently recognized as Endangered.

What is the scientific name of the United Arab Emirates national animal?

The Arabian Oryx is Oryx leucoryx. It is classified as a mammal in Africa.

Is the Arabian Oryx the only national animal in Africa?

No. The Arabian Oryx is used by 4 countries in total: United Arab Emirates plus Oman, Qatar, Bahrain.

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Other countries that chose the Arabian Oryx

The Arabian Oryx is the national animal of 4 countries in total, not just United Arab Emirates. That overlap is common in heraldry, where neighbouring states and former colonies often share a symbol taken from the same regional tradition.

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