A majestic Arabian leopard with golden fur and dark spots, standing in a natural habitat with warm lighting.

Arabian Leopards

Arabian Leopards

The Arabian leopard is one of the smallest subspecies of leopard and is native to the Arabian Peninsula. It is an endangered species that has been on the red list since 1996. The number of Arabian leopards is estimated to range from 80 to 300 individuals. No more precise figures are available. The coat of the Arabian leopard has a rosette pattern and colors range from pale yellow to golden to yellow-brown. Males weigh about 30 kilograms and stand 1.30 meters tall. Females weigh only 20 kilograms and are correspondingly smaller. Generally, the Arabian leopard is smaller than the African and Persian leopard.

Written by: Michaela Eckmüller Last updated at: September 30, 2025

Habitat and Distribution

The Arabian leopard lives in mountainous and hilly regions of the Arabian Peninsula. Habitats within the Sultanate of Oman include theHajar Mountains, the northern exclave Musandam and Dhofar, the southernmost region of the country. The leopard has become extinct in the Hajar Mountains; in Musandam, it is found only sporadically, and in Dhofar lives the largest known population, in the Jebel Samhan Nature Reserve. This area provides optimal living conditions for the Arabian leopard. Here, it finds shelter, water, and food. Besides leopards, wolves, gazelles, foxes, striped hyenas, and other animals also live there.

Behavior

Arabian leopards are considered solitary animals that only live together for a short time during mating. A female leopard usually gives birth to about 2 to 3 cubs, which spend the following year with their mother before leaving to live independently. Leopards are nocturnal and spend the day in sheltered places. When they go hunting, they approach their prey quietly and slowly, then quickly and powerfully dispatch it.

Discover Oman with experts who have called it their home

Your dream holiday, tailor-made by experts.

We don't just know Oman from books, we visit the country several times a year to experience the culture, landscape and people first-hand.

From your first enquiry to your return home, we are there for you personally - by phone, email or WhatsApp, whenever you need us. Our trips are as unique as you are: individually planned and provided with exclusive privileges and high-quality arrangements that will make your trip unforgettable.

You might also like this

A dolphin jumping out of the water in the ocean.

Whales and Dolphins

2 min read

In the underwater world along the Omani coasts of the Indian Ocean, you can find whales and dolphins from the northern region Musandam to the southern region of Dhofar. These mammals evolved about 50 million years ago in our world's oceans. The biggest challenge for these animals was to adapt breathing to life in water. Nature solved this problem by developing nostrils into what are called blowholes on the top of the head. Movement was optimized by their streamlined bodies. The tail fin and dorsal fin developed for navigation. The fur needed on land was no longer necessary and was replaced by ...

A quiet, sandy beach with mountains in the background under a clear sky.

Best time of travel

8 min read

Oman is a country of striking contrasts, where breathtaking deserts, fertile oases, and dramatic coastlines come together. But when is the best time to explore this fascinating destination? Oman’s climate varies significantly by region and season, with each period offering its own highlights and experiences. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach getaway, an adventurous desert safari, or the unique natural phenomenon of the Khareef monsoon, careful planning will help you make the most of Oman year-round. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of Oman’s climate, the ideal tra...

View of the white marble façade of the Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Oman with arched entrances and intricate architectural details.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque of Muscat

6 min read

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, the capital of Oman, stands as a remarkable symbol of the country's cultural identity and spiritual heritage. Nestled in the heart of Al-Ghubra in the Bawshar district, the mosque is a centerpiece of the vibrant Muscat Capital Area. Positioned along the main road between Muscat and Seeb, its central location makes it easily accessible to both locals and travelers from around the world....