Wildlife Status Rectification: NCW Launches Third Phase In Saudi Arabia

The National Center for Wildlife has started the third phase of an initiative to correct the status of unlicensed wildlife owned by individuals. The phase runs until May 31 and seeks to regulate private possession and trade, ensuring all activities comply with the Environmental Law and its executive regulations across the Kingdom.

This stage focuses on people who keep or trade wildlife on a wider scale than earlier phases. It aims to bring their activities under legal control, document ownership, and ensure proper sheltering and breeding standards. The step forms part of national work to control the wildlife sector and reduce illegal activities.

Earlier phases of the National Center for Wildlife initiative dealt with more specific groups and facilities. These included falcon owners, private wildlife collections, breeding and sheltering centres, and commercial outlets that sell wildlife products or derivatives. The first and second stages addressed their status and brought many such activities into line with current regulations.

The National Center for Wildlife explains that the broader third phase supports building a detailed database of wildlife inside Saudi Arabia. This database should improve oversight of ownership and trading practices, while also improving sheltering conditions. It will help reduce harmful, unregulated practices that disturb natural habitats or increase risks to native wildlife species.

According to the National Center for Wildlife, the initiative reflects national efforts to protect wildlife and support ecosystem sustainability. The agency states that it also helps confront illegal wildlife trade. Owners are urged to use the rectification window and review relevant rules through the Fitri Platform, so their animals are documented legally in line with environmental requirements.

The National Center for Wildlife notes that full participation in the initiative can raise compliance with environmental law and executive regulations. It is expected to support biodiversity protection and improve wildlife management efficiency. By aligning private ownership and trade with official standards, the initiative seeks long-term stability for ecosystems across Saudi Arabia.

With inputs from SPA