Saudi Arabia Announces Dates For Upcoming Hunting Season, Stresses Sustainability

The National Center for Wildlife has announced the start and end dates for the hunting season in Saudi Arabia. This decision follows a thorough review of hunting practices, focusing on sustainable resource use while preserving biodiversity and environmental balance.

The center has specified that only certain species will be allowed for hunting. These details will be available on the center's website and the Fitri platform. Hunters must have a licensed hunting rifle and obtain a permit through the Fitri platform.

Hunting endangered wildlife is strictly forbidden. Additionally, hunting is not allowed in designated off-limits areas, including urban zones, villages, farms, rest houses, population centers, near military or industrial facilities, within reserves and major projects, and along coastal areas up to 20 kilometers inland.

The center has outlined acceptable hunting methods to ensure responsible practices. Techniques that can capture multiple birds at once, such as shotguns, hunting nets, or unauthorized devices like attraction and calling tools, are prohibited.

Compliance with environmental law and its executive regulations is strongly emphasized by the center. Violations will result in penalties as per the law.

Enforcement and Legal Actions

The Ministry of Interior will work with the National Center for Wildlife and other relevant agencies to apprehend violators. Those caught will be referred to the concerned authorities for legal action.

The center collaborated with hunting experts and conducted extensive research to draw insights from international best practices and past seasons. This collaboration aims to ensure sustainable resource utilization while maintaining biodiversity.

With inputs from SPA