Dubai Safari Park celebrates birth of second endangered white rhino calf

Dubai Safari Park, the emirate’s premier wildlife and conservation destination, welcomed the birth of its second whine rhino calf on 1st March 2026, a species classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with an estimated 15,700 remaining in the wild, with numbers decreasing globally. 

The arrival of the male newborn calf is a joyous occasion during current times, aptly commemorated by his official name, Salam. Embodying his namesake, Salam acts as a symbol of optimism and peace for not only the future of conservation, but for all.

Weighing 73.5 kg at birth, Salam is healthy and happy under the care of his mother, Olive, and Dubai Safari Park’s expert zoologists. 

The calf is the second white rhino born under the park’s endangered species breeding program, following the birth of Onyx in 2024, marking another triumph towards conservation efforts. 

The birth signifies a key milestone for Dubai Safari Park’s endangered species breeding program, which focuses on boosting populations of vulnerable and endangered species through partnerships with local and international wildlife parks.

Muna Alhajeri, Director of Dubai Safari Park said, “We are delighted to be welcoming our newest calf to Dubai Safari Park, which is not only a significant achievement for us, but one we share with conservation advocates worldwide. Salam is a reminder of positivity to all of us to stay strong in our continuous efforts, for conservation and in our day-to-day lives. The birth of our second white rhino perfectly encapsulates the importance of our endangered species breeding program, helping to support animal populations at risk. We’re proud to achieve such a milestone through the efforts of our highly qualified experts, vets and zoologists from around the world, ensuring we strive for the highest level of animal care and research. We look forward to continuing to actively contribute to such a critical cause and further strengthening our commitment to conservation.” 

Bonding in the nursery den with his mother, Salam is receiving the utmost safety and comfort measures - like all other resident animals - including extra bedding and food, under the skilled care of the zoologist team. 

Salam continues to thrive, already achieving key milestones such as standing, walking and suckling. -TradeArabia News Service