Four Arrested for Hunting 15 Animals in Royal Reserve

Saudi authorities have arrested four citizens accused of hunting 15 wild animals inside King Salman Royal Reserve, in a case that highlights ongoing efforts to protect wildlife within the Kingdom's protected areas.

The arrests are part of continued enforcement action targeting hunting violations in royal reserves and other protected zones across Saudi Arabia. Officials have reinforced monitoring in these areas to safeguard native species and their habitats.

Penalties for hunting violations

Under current regulations, hunting without a license carries a fine of SAR 10,000, while hunting in prohibited areas is penalized with SAR 5,000. Not holding a hunting license while hunting also results in a SAR 10,000 fine.

Using firearms for hunting carries a fine of SAR 80,000, and using a shotgun raises the penalty to SAR 100,000. Hunting a gestating female of any species doubles the listed penalty for that species. Hunting inside protected areas without a license carries a SAR 10,000 fine plus a per-unit penalty, capped at SAR 100,000. Operating a private hunting reserve without a valid license carries a fine of no less than SAR 100,000 and no more than SAR 1,000,000.

The reserves form part of wider efforts to preserve biodiversity and restore natural environments. For residents and visitors, the message is clear: hunting is strictly regulated, and violations inside protected areas can result in significant fines and legal action.

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