26 National Parks Registered to Boost Nature Protection

Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step toward expanding its network of protected natural areas, with the approval of the registration of 26 national parks in the national register of protected areas. The parks cover a combined area of more than 5,115 square kilometres, adding weight to nationwide efforts to safeguard the environment while opening the door to responsible tourism.

The registration forms part of a unified national reference for protected areas, alongside updated entries in the World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA). The goal is to standardize how these sites are managed and to bring them in line with recognized international standards for protected areas.

The move supports the national target of protecting 30% of the country's land and marine areas by 2030, while enhancing biodiversity and helping restore natural habitats. It falls under the wider national environment strategy and the objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative.

What it means for residents and visitors

Beyond conservation, the parks are being positioned as destinations for camping, caravanning, events, ecotourism and agritourism. Initiatives are already underway to assess and develop at least 50 national parks, including environmental and socio-economic assessments and infrastructure upgrades.

Investment frameworks use long-term contracts of up to 25 years for some parks, with separate opportunities running from five to 25 years. A memorandum of understanding with the Saudi Tourism Authority aims to frame investment opportunities and develop tourism experiences on the managed lands. Additional plans target the development of 27 eco-cultural heritage sites inside national parks across the Riyadh, Madinah, Eastern Province and Asir regions, focusing on rehabilitation, long-term sustainability and the protection of archaeological and heritage assets.

As it stands, published information on the registration does not specify any visitor entrance fees, permit fees or application fees tied to the new listings, and does not indicate the use of specific government platforms for the registration process. For residents and expats across the Kingdom, the expanded network promises more accessible natural getaways in the years ahead.

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