Saudi Arabia pledges $51.6M to DC National Zoo for leopard habitat, boosting conservation and soft power

Saudi Arabia’s Royal Commission for AlUla has pledged $51.6 million to the Smithsonian National Zoo for a new Arabian leopard habitat, the zoo’s largest donation ever. The critically endangered species exhibit, set to open in 2029, will support long-term breeding and conservation, with cubs eventually returning to Saudi Arabia. AlUla, an ancient oasis region in northwestern Saudi Arabia, is being promoted as a cultural and tourist destination. Experts note the gift, mirroring China’s panda strategy, also serves as soft-power diplomacy, boosting Saudi influence in Washington, using conservation partnerships to improve its international image, and promoting tourism.