Al Ain: Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort (AWPR) has won the right to host the 70th annual conference of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).
The AWPR outmanoeuvred other competitive bidders in the competition, said an official of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), noting that the event will be held in 2015. The success has consolidated the AWPR's dynamic leisure and learning destination credentials, as well as Abu Dhabi emirate's burgeoning reputation for conservation and sustainability.
The WAZA is the unifying organisation of the world zoo and aquarium community. The body's network is an influential international group that comprises more than 1,300 institutions. The officials said the WAZA includes leading zoos and aquariums, regional and national associations of zoos and aquariums and affiliate organisations.
Together, they are united for conservation and more than 600 million visitors pass through the gates of member zoos and aquariums every year.
"Hosting this prestigious global conference will strengthen our position as a world leading wildlife and conservation organisation," said Ganem Al Hajiri, Director General of the AWPR.
"WAZA's vision is aligned to ours and complements our ambition of reaching full conservation potential," he added.
Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director General of the DATA, said it is a significant step forward in building awareness of Al Ain as an alternative meetings destination, particularly for subjects associated with heritage, culture and sustainability.
