Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in conservation, focusing on protecting biodiversity and natural habitats across the kingdom. The country’s conservation efforts are led by the Saudi National Center for Wildlife (NCW) and align with Vision 2030, which emphasizes environmental sustainability. A key initiative is the establishment of protected areas, which now cover more than 18% of the country’s land and 3.67% of the marine areaacross 79 total protected areas.
These areas, include protected areas, Royal Reserves and the recently designated World Heritage site (‘Uruq Bani Ma’arid) to protect endangered species such as the Arabian oryx, gazelles, and the Red Sea’s coral reefs. Saudi Arabia also implements restoration programs and wildlife breeding and reintroduction efforts to restore ecosystems, safeguard water resources, and mitigate desertification.
Photo: © Muhammad Al Yousifi
| Site Name | WDPA ID | Country | Region | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ibex Protected Area | 101910 | Saudi Arabia | North Africa, West Asia, Middle East | Listed |
| King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve | 11956 | Saudi Arabia | North Africa, West Asia, Middle East | Listed |
| King Salman Royal Nature Reserve | 555744898 | Saudi Arabia | North Africa, West Asia, Middle East | Listed |
| Sharaan Nature Reserve | 555624824 | Saudi Arabia | North Africa, West Asia, Middle East | Listed |
