The National Center for Wildlife (NCW) is pleased to announce the commencement of the 2024 hunting season in Saudi Arabia. season will begin on September 1, 2024 (28/2/1446H) and run through January 31, 2025 (1/8/1446H). This announcement comes after a comprehensive update to hunting regulations, designed to ensure the sustainable use of natural resources while safeguarding biodiversity and maintaining environmental balance. These updated regulations reflect insights from hunting experts, extensive research, and global best practices, as well as lessons learned from previous seasons and Saudi Arabia's international commitments.

NCW clarifies that hunting will be permitted only for species listed on NCW’s website. Hunters with licensed shotguns or registered falconers from the Saudi Falcon Club must secure hunting permits through the designated platform, Fitri.

NCW emphasized that hunting of endangered species remains strictly prohibited. Additionally, hunting is banned in certain restricted areas, including city limits, villages, farms, rest areas, and other populated zones. It is also prohibited near military, industrial, and vital facilities, within protected areas, major projects, and within 20 kilometers of the Kingdom's coastline.

NCW specifies that only approved hunting methods are allowed, and the use of shotguns, nets, or other unauthorized techniques, such as lure and call methods, is prohibited.

Hunters must adhere to all environmental regulations and executive rules governing wildlife hunting. Non-compliance will result in legal penalties. The Ministry of Interior, through the Special Forces for Environmental Security and other relevant authorities, will work with the NCW to enforce these regulations and address any violations accordingly.