The Kingdom’s environmental authorities have showcased a series of major achievements in combating desertification and restoring ecosystems as part of activities marking the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought.
The accomplishments reflect ongoing efforts to rehabilitate degraded land, expand vegetation cover, and protect biodiversity in line with Vision 2030 and national sustainability goals.
AlUla Records Major Vegetation Recovery
AlUla reported significant success in ecosystem restoration programs, including the rehabilitation of more than 5,100 hectares of natural rangelands.
More than 530,000 seedlings representing 60 native plant species have been planted, contributing to a dramatic increase in vegetation cover from 6% in 2018 to 35% in 2025.
The governorate’s environmental achievements also gained international recognition with Sharaan National Park being added to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Green List.
Royal Reserves Expand Restoration Efforts
The King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority announced the rehabilitation of more than 750,000 hectares of degraded land and the planting of over 4 million seedlings.
These efforts have strengthened wildlife habitats and increased biodiversity across the reserve.
Meanwhile, the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve reported restoring more than 38,780 hectares of natural areas and planting nearly one million native seedlings.
The reserve also documented 235 plant species and operates 10 environmental monitoring stations to support scientific research and conservation planning.
Regional Cooperation Against Desertification
The environmental achievements coincided with the conclusion of a regional knowledge forum organized by the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification in Al-Jouf.
The forum brought together government officials, international organizations, scientists, and environmental experts to discuss strategies for addressing desertification, drought, and land degradation.
Participants reviewed global best practices and successful experiences in ecosystem restoration and climate adaptation.
Sustainability Remains a National Priority
Forum participants emphasized the importance of expanding vegetation cover, restoring ecosystems, and promoting sustainable natural resource management.
They also highlighted the need for stronger regional cooperation, scientific research, and knowledge sharing to address climate change, water scarcity, and environmental degradation.
These achievements demonstrate the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and its growing leadership role in ecosystem restoration and biodiversity conservation.
