Dubai: The Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO), in collaboration with Dubai Crown Prince’s Office, organised a press conference on Wednesday 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, the 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; Mohammad Al Muhairi, from the Dubai Crown Prince’s Office, Aboud Khederchah, Sony; and Noora Al Mansouri, Government of Dubai Media Office.
Starting the conference, Noora said that Dubai’s hosting this event stems from the emirate’s enthusiasm to protect the environment and endangered species.
In his speech, Jacques-Olivier Travers stated that on Saturday, Freedom Conservation will attempt to set a new world record by flying a white-tailed eagle, named Darshan, from the top of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, in Dubai.
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 programmes. We hope to record a new world record.”
Al Muhairi 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.”
Khederchah said: “We have developed this camera especially for this purpose and to fit the eagle’s movement and speed that reach about 200km/h.
The charity Freedom works in collaboration with a leading conservation initiative, SOS - Save our Species, and 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 heritage of culture of the UAE. The golden falcon is the national symbol of the UAE, and Dubai firmly supports international efforts to protect threatened species such as those of Freedom Conservation. 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.
