Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Wildlife has launched a series of new ecotourism initiatives, including safari destinations and birdwatching sites, as part of broader efforts to promote sustainable tourism linked to biodiversity and environmental conservation.
The new projects include safari experiences in Taif and Thadiq, alongside bird sanctuaries and dedicated birdwatching areas across several reserves and national parks, including the Farasan Islands Reserve in the Red Sea.
The initiatives aim to transform environmentally significant natural sites into sustainable tourism destinations that combine recreation, environmental education, and wildlife conservation, further strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a global destination for nature-based tourism.
Officials said the projects will allow visitors to experience native wildlife in their natural habitats through tourism models that integrate outdoor recreation with environmental awareness and sustainability.
The National Center for Wildlife emphasized that the initiatives will also contribute to protecting endangered species and preserving natural habitats while supporting the growth of ecotourism as part of the national economy.
In recent years, the Kingdom has significantly expanded its environmental sustainability programs through habitat restoration projects, wildlife reintroduction initiatives, and the expansion of protected areas under the goals of Vision 2030.
The Farasan Islands Reserve is considered one of the Kingdom’s most important biodiversity sites, known for its marine ecosystems, migratory birds, and rare wildlife species, including the endangered Arabian gazelle, making it a major destination for ecotourism and environmental research.
