Hunting is a cherished recreational activity worldwide, offering people an opportunity to connect with nature, experience the outdoors, and create lasting memories with friends and family. However, before setting out on a hunting expedition, it’s important to adhere to safety guidelines and regulations that ensure a successful, enjoyable, and ethical experience.
In Saudi Arabia, the National Center for Wildlife (NCW) has developed the Hunting Guidelines booklet. This comprehensive guide is designed to support hunters in practicing safe, responsible, and conservation-friendly hunting. It provides key information on hunting ethics, principles, and regulations, as well as relevant international agreements and treaties. Additionally, the guide outlines species that can be legally hunted without endangering biodiversity, ensuring that hunters contribute to wildlife preservation.
The guidelines emphasize the importance of responsible hunting, presenting valuable scientific insights and practical recommendations that foster a deep respect for the natural environment. Saudi Arabia’s diverse habitats—spanning
forests, mountains, deserts, and coastlines—support a rich array of wildlife. However, human activity has caused ecological challenges, making it crucial to implement protective measures. The guide serves as a timely reminder of the importance of preserving Saudi Arabia’s biodiversity.
NCW’s Role in Wildlife Conservation
The booklet highlights the National Center for Wildlife’s (NCW) role in conserving Saudi Arabia’s wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems. It underscores the significance of balancing traditional hunting practices with modern conservation efforts. While hunting remains an integral part of Arabian culture, it is essential that these practices are aligned with sustainability goals, ensuring that wildlife populations are maintained for future generations.
NCW collaborates with national and international organizations to regulate hunting and preserve biodiversity. Through initiatives like the Fitri platform, NCW helps manage hunting activities, ensuring adherence to legal and ethical standards.
A Well-Organized Reference
The Hunting Guidelines booklet is structured to make information accessible and user-friendly. The first section covers the ethics and principles of hunting, focusing on the responsibilities of hunters and the necessity of protecting wildlife. It provides historical context and outlines the modern challenges facing hunting practices.
The second section details international agreements and treaties relevant to wildlife protection, while the third section
explains the implementing regulations for hunting in Saudi Arabia. It highlights the types of animals that can be hunted, the designated hunting areas, the approved gear, and the licensing procedures required for lawful hunting. Importantly, it explains how these regulations help protect endangered species and sustain biodiversity.
Further sections focus on the sustainable hunting standards, offering detailed criteria for determining which species can be hunted and the specific seasons for hunting. The guide also includes essential information on bird species permitted for hunting, offering clarity for enthusiasts. The Fitri platform is introduced as a key tool in managing hunting activities, allowing hunters to apply for permits, report their catches, and stay informed on wildlife conservation efforts.
Endemic and Protected Species
One of the appendices lists bird species endemic to Saudi Arabia, which are fully protected. It also outlines the penalties for hunting prohibited species and violations of the Implementing Regulations. The appendices serve as a valuable resource for hunters, helping them navigate the legal framework and avoid actions that may harm wildlife or lead to fines.
Digital Access for Hunters
The booklet is available for easy access through a QR code, providing hunters with a convenient way to stay informed on hunting regulations and conservation guidelines while on the go.
