Al Ain Zoo has entered the Guinness World Records with the largest sentence created from palm leaves displaying the name of the Zoo.
Ahmed Eisa Al Harasi, Acting Director General of Al Ain Zoo, was awarded the certificate of achievement during a ceremony organised by the zoo. The event was attended by the zoo's management, employees and representatives from participating organisations.
The environmental artwork achieved recognition by meeting the strict criteria of the Guinness World Records, which include adherence to sustainability standards such as protecting natural ecosystems, preventing environmental harm and avoiding disruption to the lifecycle of trees. The artwork measured 12 metres in length and 1.7 metres in height.
In keeping with its commitment to sustainability and nature conservation, Al Ain Zoo chose to create this artwork using natural materials, primarily palm leaves. This choice reflects the cultural significance of the palm tree in the UAE, symbolising both environmental sustainability and cultural tourism.
Ahmed Eisa Al Harasi, Acting Director General of Al Ain Zoo, said: “We are delighted to present Al Ain Zoo's artwork as a beautiful representation of the sustainability of the palm tree, which holds immense environmental, cultural and social value for the city of Al Ain, known throughout the years as the city of oases and palms.
“We made sure that this environmental artwork aligns with our ongoing efforts to protect and sustain nature. The palm leaves used were collected from the pruning and trimming of palm trees in Al Ain farms, a process known locally as 'takreeb', which involves removing dry and damaged fronds. This approach ensures that the environment is not harmed, and its resources remain intact.
“We chose palm fronds as the central element of this artwork because palm trees are symbols of generosity and abundance. From them, we are inspired to make our efforts in conservation as fruitful as the palm tree has been for the city of Al Ain, a city that has always been and continues to be a source of prosperity.”
Al Ain Zoo extended its gratitude to everyone who contributed to and participated in the creation of the sustainable environmental artwork. Special thanks were given to the residents of Al Ain, particularly farm and palm owners, for their commitment to promoting environmental sustainability. This initiative reflects the zoo's mission to educate the community and involve them in wildlife conservation and nature preservation.
The ceremony featured a variety of activities, including a performance of Emirati traditional arts, live demonstrations of palm weaving, carving and painting, as well as a spectacular laser and light show.
The display of this environmental artwork is part of the Nature Conservation Festival organised by the Zoo from 9-18 December 2024. The artwork will remain on display after the festival concludes.
