Saudi Arabia Kicks Off Hunting Season Under Stricter Wildlife Rules

NewsDesk Milli Chronicle September 27, 2025September 29, 2025 biodiversity protection Saudi Arabia, conservation efforts Saudi Arabia, eco-friendly hunting regulations, ecological balance initiatives, endangered species protection, environmental awareness campaigns, environmental sustainability Saudi Arabia, falconry Saudi Arabia, Fitri platform hunting permits, green policy initiatives, illegal hunting prevention, international recognition wildlife Saudi, legal penalties hunting violations, Middle East wildlife preservation, Migratory Species Champion award, migratory species protection, National Center for Wildlife Saudi, Neom protected areas, Qiddiya wildlife rules, Red Sea Project conservation, regulated hunting season 2025-2026, responsible hunting practices, Saudi Arabia eco-tourism, Saudi Arabia nature protection, Saudi Arabia wildlife conservation, Saudi environmental leadership, Saudi Green Initiative, sustainable hunting Saudi Arabia, sustainable outdoor activities Saudi Arabia, sustainable use of natural resources, Vision 2030 environmental projects, wildlife management programs

Riyadh – Saudi Arabia is reinforcing its leadership in environmental conservation as the National Center for Wildlife unveiled its updated regulations for the 2025-2026 hunting season, running from September 1 to January 31, 2026. The new framework emphasizes biodiversity protection, sustainable use of natural resources, and the preservation of ecological balance, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to global environmental standards.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, the regulations are informed by the latest research, international best practices, and lessons from previous hunting seasons, ensuring a modern, science-driven approach to wildlife management. Only species officially listed on the center’s website and the Fitri platform may be hunted, while endangered species remain fully protected.

Licensed hunters and falconers, registered with the Saudi Falcons Club, are required to obtain permits through the Fitri platform, reinforcing a structured, responsible approach to hunting. The rules also safeguard sensitive areas, prohibiting hunting in urban regions, residential neighborhoods, farms, military or industrial zones, and mega projects such as Neom, Qiddiya, and The Red Sea Project. Coastal regions are similarly protected, with hunting banned up to 20 kilometers inland.

Sustainable hunting methods are encouraged, with prohibited practices including shotguns, nets, electronic lures, and any techniques that capture multiple birds at once. Violators face legal action enforced by the Ministry of Interior’s Special Forces for Environmental Security in close coordination with the National Center for Wildlife.

Mohammed Qurban, CEO of the center, highlighted the progress of Saudi Arabia’s regulated hunting program: “Since its introduction in 2021, the Kingdom has continuously refined its hunting system, promoting sustainability and raising awareness among hunters. This demonstrates a growing national commitment to protecting natural resources and supporting ecological balance.”

Saudi Arabia’s efforts have gained international recognition. The center was recently awarded the Migratory Species Champion Award, highlighting the Kingdom’s leadership in combating illegal hunting and trade of migratory species across Southwest Asia.

“These achievements underscore Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in global conservation efforts,” Qurban added. “By regulating hunting and encouraging responsible practices, we are protecting wildlife while enabling sustainable enjoyment of traditional activities.”

The initiative forms part of the Kingdom’s broader environmental vision under Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative, which aim to combine economic growth with ecological stewardship. Through these efforts, Saudi Arabia is not only preserving its natural heritage but also positioning itself as a global model for sustainable wildlife management and conservation.

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