The Saudi National Center for Wildlife (NCW) has announced that the hunting season will kick off on September 1, 2024 and will last for 5 months until January 31, 2025.
The NCW said the hunting season will feature 29 designated bird species. 25 of them will be available during the fall season, from September 1 to November 30, 2024. The other 4 bird species will be available during winter, from December 1, 2024 to January 31, 2025.
Regulations Update
The NCW’s announcement came after a comprehensive update for the hunting regulations to ensure the sustainable use of natural resources while preserving biodiversity and environmental balance.
This update is based on research, data and study of the best international standards and practices, with the participation of hunting experts. It also draws on lessons learned from previous hunting seasons and adheres to Saudi Arabia’s international commitments.
Hunting Requirements
According to the NCW, hunting will be permitted only to species listed on the NCW’s website and “Fitri” platform. Hunters with licensed shotguns, or registered falconers at the Saudi Falcon Club, must get hunting permits from “Fitri” platform.
Furthermore, the NCW emphasized that hunting endangered species is permanently restricted. It also warned against hunting all wildlife animals, including birds, in certain restricted areas. These areas include within the boundaries of cities, villages, farms, rest areas, or any populated places.
The National Center for Wildlife announces that the 2024 hunting season will begin on September 1, governed by new regulations in line with the updated Environmental Law.#NurturedByNature pic.twitter.com/oex3SRAIYI
— المركز الوطني لتنمية الحياة الفطرية (@NCW_center) August 29, 2024
Hunting is also prohibited near military, industrial and vital facilities, as well as within protected areas, and major projects. It is prohibited along the Kingdom’s coastline, extending 20 kilometers inland.
Additionally, the NCW noted that hunting is limited to the approved hunting methods. Therefore, the use of tools that hunt more than one bird is prohibited. This includes the use of shotguns, nets, or other unauthorized hunting techniques, such as lure and call methods.
Finally, the NCW stressed that hunters must comply with environmental laws and regulations governing wildlife hunting, or otherwise face legal penalties.
