The Farasan Islands Reserve, managed by the National Center for Wildlife, has been officially added to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas. This recognition highlights protected areas that demonstrate effective, fair, and sustainable management, placing the reserve among a distinguished group of sites worldwide that meet rigorous international standards.
The designation reflects the reserve’s success in implementing strong governance practices and adopting management and planning approaches grounded in leading scientific methods. It also underscores ongoing efforts to involve local communities in conservation initiatives, strengthening the sustainable use of natural resources while supporting the region’s environmental and economic value.
IUCN Green List
Evaluation for the IUCN Green List is based on four key pillars: sound governance, integrated planning, effective management, and the achievement of measurable outcomes in biodiversity conservation.
Beyond its symbolic value, the listing carries strategic benefits. It supports the enhancement of the reserve’s technical management through the adoption of global monitoring and protection standards. It also creates new opportunities to attract international environmental investment and research funding, while positioning the Farasan Islands as a prominent eco-tourism destination committed to high sustainability standards.
The Farasan Islands Reserve is one of Saudi Arabia’s most important marine protected areas, covering approximately 5,657 square kilometers. The archipelago includes more than 266 coral islands and hosts remarkable biodiversity, with around 180 plant species, 150 bird species, and 230 fish species. It is also home to the Farasan gazelle, extensive mangrove forests, and serves as a refuge for endangered wildlife such as sea turtles and dugongs, alongside several historical and cultural landmarks.
With this achievement, the Farasan Islands Reserve joins other Saudi reserves already listed on the IUCN Green List, strengthening the Kingdom’s growing reputation as a global leader in sustainable environmental conservation.
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