Conducted throughout 2024 and 2025, the study reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to sustainable conservation and environmental stewardship under the Vision 2030 framework.

The large-scale assessment, carried out across more than 400 sites, examined vital marine and coastal habitats such as coral reefs, seagrass meadows, mangrove forests, and mudflats.

The project was completed in collaboration with international experts using advanced research methods, including underwater imaging, satellite remote sensing, and internationally recognized ecological evaluation techniques.

The findings revealed that coral reefs along the eastern coast maintain a healthy cover rate of around 22 percent, with minimal bleaching not exceeding 2 percent.

Scientists noted that the dominant coral species, including Porites and Merulina, exhibited strong resilience to the region’s warm temperatures and changing environmental conditions.

These results demonstrate the natural strength of Saudi Arabia’s marine biodiversity and the success of recent conservation initiatives.

Equally promising were the results for seagrass meadows, which remain stable across most surveyed areas. These meadows are critical for maintaining marine life and supporting carbon storage.

Meanwhile, mangrove forests were found to span approximately 1,573 hectares, displaying dense and healthy vegetation, especially in key areas such as Ras Tanura and Tarout Island.

Mangroves play an essential role in protecting shorelines, preventing erosion, and providing nursery grounds for fish and other marine species.

The assessment also highlighted the richness of marine fauna in the Arabian Gulf. More than 80,000 fish from 90 distinct species were observed during the study, alongside sightings of large marine animals including dugongs, dolphins, turtles, sharks, and rays.

These findings reinforce the Arabian Gulf’s importance as a critical habitat supporting regional biodiversity and sustaining vital ecosystems.

In addition to marine life, the study recorded 176,836 birds representing 69 different species, emphasizing the region’s significance as a global stopover for migratory birds.

Peak bird numbers were noted during the autumn migration season, with Dammam Corniche and Tarout Bay identified as key breeding and aggregation zones.

Researchers even documented the first recorded sighting of Franklin’s gull in Saudi Arabia, marking an exciting discovery for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts.

National Center for Wildlife CEO Mohammed Qurban emphasized that the assessment reflects Saudi Arabia’s dedication to scientific research, biodiversity preservation, and sustainable ecosystem management.

He stated that the results will serve as an important scientific reference to guide national planning and decision-making aimed at protecting the Kingdom’s natural heritage.

Qurban also highlighted that maintaining healthy coastal and marine environments contributes directly to global climate stability, food security, and economic sustainability.

He affirmed that the study’s findings align with the broader objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative, which seeks to enhance environmental conservation, expand protected areas, and promote ecological restoration throughout the country.

The positive assessment of the eastern coastal environment builds on previous studies by the NCW, including extensive research in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf.

These initiatives demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s leadership in using data-driven methods to ensure the long-term protection of its natural ecosystems while balancing sustainable development.

The report’s conclusions mark an important step in the Kingdom’s journey toward environmental resilience. By integrating science, innovation, and policy, Saudi Arabia continues to establish itself as a regional leader in conservation and sustainable marine management.

The results from this study reaffirm that the Kingdom’s eastern coastline remains vibrant, biologically diverse, and capable of supporting both present and future generations.

The event brought together global leaders, environmental experts, and organizations dedicated to protecting the planet’s natural heritage, providing an ideal platform for the Kingdom to showcase its remarkable progress under Saudi Vision 2030.

At its vibrant pavilion, the authority presented an inspiring overview of the Kingdom’s accomplishments in biodiversity conservation, vegetation restoration, and sustainable ecotourism.

According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the reserve authority highlighted efforts that have transformed vast areas of the Arabian landscape into thriving ecosystems that balance environmental protection with community and economic development.

The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve, spanning over 91,500 square kilometers, stands as one of the largest protected areas in the Kingdom.

During the congress, the authority shared its impressive record of planting more than 775,000 seedlings, which has resulted in a 9 percent increase in vegetation cover.

These efforts have significantly contributed to combating desertification, restoring natural habitats, and improving overall ecological balance in the region.

One of the highlights of the pavilion was the successful reintroduction of endangered species, including the Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, and red-necked ostrich.

These rewilding programs symbolize the Kingdom’s deep commitment to restoring native wildlife populations and preserving biodiversity for future generations.

Visitors learned how careful planning, habitat protection, and scientific monitoring have allowed these majestic animals to thrive once again in their natural environments.

The pavilion’s design itself reflected Saudi Arabia’s forward-thinking approach to conservation. It featured interactive displays of plant and soil models, along with cutting-edge field monitoring devices that demonstrate how technology is being used to track vegetation cover and ecosystem health.

The immersive setup allowed visitors to experience the unique environmental diversity of the reserve, showcasing the seamless integration of science, culture, and sustainability.

Beyond ecology, the authority’s participation emphasized the social and economic dimensions of conservation. The pavilion highlighted projects that empower local communities through ecotourism, environmental education, and sustainable livelihoods.

These initiatives not only create jobs and foster economic growth but also cultivate a stronger sense of environmental stewardship among residents.

Visitors were particularly impressed by the tourism-focused exhibits, which showcased how the reserve is becoming a model for eco-friendly travel. Through guided nature trails, wildlife observation areas, and cultural heritage programs, the reserve invites both domestic and international visitors to explore Saudi Arabia’s natural beauty responsibly.

This approach reflects the country’s broader goal of promoting tourism that supports conservation while celebrating the Kingdom’s environmental and cultural heritage.

Delegations and guests from around the world praised the Kingdom’s achievements, describing the Saudi pavilion as one of the most engaging and informative exhibits at the congress.

It highlighted how the Kingdom’s conservation policies align with global sustainability goals, demonstrating that economic growth and environmental preservation can go hand in hand.

The IUCN World Conservation Congress, which began on October 9 and concludes on Wednesday, serves as one of the most important global gatherings for environmental leadership and innovation. By actively participating in the event, Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its position as a regional leader in environmental protection and biodiversity management.

In a statement, the authority emphasized that these achievements are part of the Kingdom’s broader strategy to enhance natural resource sustainability, in line with Vision 2030’s Green Saudi and Green Middle East initiatives.

These national programs aim to increase green spaces, combat climate change, and safeguard biodiversity through large-scale environmental projects.

As the congress draws to a close, Saudi Arabia’s participation stands as a proud reflection of the Kingdom’s commitment to building a greener, more sustainable future.

Through innovation, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to conservation, the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve has become a beacon of environmental progress — embodying the harmony between nature, people, and prosperity that defines the next era of Saudi environmental leadership.