The head of Dubai Zoo received the award from the Emirates Natural History Group in recognition of his work to create awareness and help conserve the biodiversity of the UAE. Dr Reza Khan received the Sheikh Mubarak bin Mohammed Al Nahyan Award which is presented annually to those who have contributed to scientific research and publishing in the UAE. The winner is selected from a list of nominations submitted by members of the Natural History Group in Dubai, Al Ain and Abu Dhabi, Dr Reza Khan was selected for his outstanding work, especially on trees and reptiles, along with the professional development of Dubai Zoo through projects such as the breeding of indigenous species from the UAE.