Saudi Arabia launches 2026-2027 sustainable hunting season with new regulations

The National Center for Wildlife announced today the launch of the 2026-2027 sustainable hunting season in Saudi Arabia, which will run from September 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027. The season is part of a regulatory framework aimed at promoting sustainable hunting practices and preserving biodiversity and ecological balance in the Kingdom.

The center stated that this marks the sixth hunting season since the initiative began in 2021, and it will feature several regulatory updates. Notably, the number of permitted species has increased to 30, the national quota has been raised by 11 percent, and the number of licenses issued will rise by 34 percent. Additionally, hunting permits for falconry now require proof of ownership or a falcon passport to enhance data reliability and compliance.

Conditions and regulations for hunting

The center clarified that sustainable terrestrial hunting is limited to species listed on its website and the "Fatri" platform, and that official permits must be obtained through the platform. This applies to holders of licensed air and gas-powered "Sakton" hunting rifles, as well as falconers registered with the Saudi Falcon Club. Hunting of endangered wild species and all wildlife, including birds, is prohibited in restricted areas such as cities, villages, farms, rest houses, vital facilities, nature reserves, and major projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Project. Hunting is also banned along the Kingdom’s coastline up to 20 kilometers inland.

The center emphasized that only legal hunting methods are allowed, prohibiting the capture of more than one bird at a time and banning the use of shotguns, nets, or lures and calls. Violations of these regulations are subject to penalties, with the Ministry of Interior, represented by the Special Forces for Environmental Security and other relevant authorities, responsible for apprehending violators and referring them to the appropriate bodies.

Impact of regulations and international recognition

Dr. Mohammed Ali Qurban, CEO of the National Center for Wildlife, stated that the sixth season of regulated hunting reflects accumulated institutional and scientific experience, contributing to the development of an advanced national model for sustainable hunting management. He added that the current season’s updates are based on monitoring results and evaluations of previous seasons, aiming to balance regulated hunting with the sustainability of species and ecosystems.

Dr. Qurban noted that increased awareness among hunters and a stronger culture of compliance have been key outcomes of past seasons, stressing that the success of the sustainable hunting framework relies on a combination of regulation, oversight, and hunter awareness. He also highlighted that Saudi Arabia’s progress in this area has received international recognition, with the Kingdom—represented by the National Center for Wildlife—winning the "Outstanding Leadership for Migratory Species" award for its efforts to combat illegal hunting and support related international initiatives.