National Wildlife Center Launches New Phase To Regulate Unlicensed Species In Saudi Arabia

The National Center for Wildlife (NCW) has initiated the second phase of its project to regulate unlicensed wildlife species in Saudi Arabia. This effort is part of a broader national strategy to manage wildlife possession, document ownership, and ensure compliance with the Environmental Law and its regulations. The initiative aims to enhance biodiversity protection and establish a regulated system for wildlife management.

This phase targets those involved in large-scale wildlife handling, such as private collections with over 10 species, breeding facilities, and businesses trading in wildlife products. The regularization period will last until February 2026. It builds on the success of the first phase, which focused on falcons, reinforcing efforts to prevent illegal activities that threaten natural habitats and species survival.

The NCW's initiative seeks to create an accurate database of wildlife, improve monitoring systems, and enhance housing standards according to environmental and health guidelines. This aligns with national goals to protect ecosystems and combat illegal wildlife trafficking. The NCW urges owners and facilities to use this grace period wisely by reviewing regulations on the "Fitri" platform.

The initiative highlights Saudi Arabia's growing commitment to biodiversity conservation. By regulating wildlife practices, the Kingdom aims to support ecosystem sustainability and address challenges related to illegal wildlife trade. This effort reflects a dedication to fostering a safer and more balanced environment for all species within its borders.

Owners and relevant facilities are encouraged to comply with these regulations during the grace period. By doing so, they contribute significantly to maintaining a balanced ecosystem. The NCW emphasizes that these steps are crucial for safeguarding wildlife while supporting sustainable development goals.

Overall, this initiative represents a significant step towards ensuring that all practices related to housing, breeding, and trading of wildlife adhere strictly to established environmental laws. It underscores the importance of protecting natural environments from harmful practices that could jeopardize biodiversity.

With inputs from SPA