Rare white rhino calf born at Dubai Safari Park, named Salam amid regional conflict

Say hello to Salam — the newest and most heartwarming arrival at Dubai Safari Park. Born on March 1, the adorable white rhino calf weighed a healthy 73.5kg and is already hitting key milestones, from standing and walking to suckling confidently under the watchful eye of his mum, Olive.

But Salam’s story goes beyond just a new birth. Arriving at a time of regional tension linked to the US-Israel-Iran war, the baby rhino calf has been given a name that carries meaning — Salam, which translates to peace. In many ways, he has become a symbol of hope, not just for wildlife conservation, but for a world in need of optimism.

“We are delighted to be welcoming our newest calf,” said Muna Alhajeri, Director of Dubai Safari Park. “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.” 

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.

Who is Salam?

Salam is the second white rhino calf born at the park through its endangered species breeding programme, following big sibling Onyx, who arrived in 2024. That’s good news, because southern white rhinos are classified as “near threatened” by the IUCN, with only around 15,700 left in the wild.

For now, Salam is safely bonding with his mother in a nursery den, where he is receiving dedicated care, extra bedding, and close monitoring from the park’s expert zoologists.

As part of an ongoing strategy, a portion of every ticket purchase is allocated to wildlife rescue, care and research initiatives. This means every guest at Dubai Safari Park directly contributes to protecting animals and ecosystems.

First inaugurated in 2018, the safari park has grown in size with over 3,000 animals from 300 species housed there. The seventh edition of the park, which opened in October 2025, is being held under the theme ‘Wild Rules’ and has six themed zones which visitors can explore on foot or using a shuttle train. The destination also hosts a young explorers workshop to help children discover fascinating animal habits, behaviors, and their vital role in nature.

A member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria and World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the park upholds the highest international standards in animal care, conservation, and sustainability. This park has a skilled team of zoologists, veterinarians and animal carers from around the globe to provide world-class animal care through its programme.