Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as one of the most exciting new destinations for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and eco-conscious travelers. Thanks to the bold efforts of Tourism Saudi, the Kingdom is not only promoting its rich cultural and historical assets but is also putting a spotlight on its diverse and often unexpected natural wonders.
From sweeping desert dunes to coral-rich coastlines and lush mountain ranges, Saudi Arabia is home to a wide variety of ecosystems. Now, under the national tourism transformation agenda, Tourism Saudi is investing in sustainable infrastructure, conservation programs, and the development of national parks and protected areas that highlight the country’s ecological wealth.
This article explores the growing role of nature conservation within Tourism Saudi, highlights some of the must-visit national parks in the Kingdom, and showcases the wildlife experiences that are helping redefine eco-tourism in the Arabian Peninsula.
Table of Contents
The Rise of Nature Conservation in Tourism Saudi
1. Vision 2030: Conservation as a Core Tourism Pillar
As part of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to diversify its economy by making tourism a major contributor to GDP. But unlike traditional development models, Tourism Saudi is committed to integrating environmental preservation into its tourism agenda.
- Key Goal: Protect 30% of the country’s land and marine environments by 2030
- Agencies involved: The Saudi Ministry of Tourism, The National Center for Wildlife, and The Saudi Green Initiative
- Conservation-first approach: All new tourism projects are now required to include environmental impact assessments and sustainability plans
2. Creating Eco-Friendly Tourist Destinations
Saudi Arabia is investing billions in sustainable tourism destinations like The Red Sea Project, NEOM, and AMAALA, where:
- Construction is powered by renewable energy
- Visitor numbers are capped to prevent ecosystem damage
- Marine life and coral reefs are actively protected and studied
These initiatives are setting new regional standards in responsible tourism, with Tourism Saudi at the helm.
3. Empowering Local Communities to Protect Nature
Tourism Saudi’s conservation efforts are not just government-led. The organization actively works with local communities, especially in rural and tribal areas, to:
- Promote eco-tourism
- Train local guides
- Employ rangers and conservation staff
- Educate youth about biodiversity and sustainability
Must-Visit National Parks in the Tourism Saudi Portfolio
Saudi Arabia is home to over a dozen national parks and reserves, many of which are still under the radar for international travelers. Tourism Saudi is now developing these areas with environmentally conscious infrastructure and tourism services.
1. Asir National Park
Location: Asir Region, Southwest Saudi Arabia
Elevation: Up to 3,000 meters above sea level
- Why visit: A cool, green escape with dense juniper forests, wildlife, hiking trails, and scenic mountain villages
- Activities: Birdwatching, hiking, cultural visits to Rijal Almaa village
- Tourism Saudi efforts: Restoring trails, training eco-guides, supporting local craft vendors
2. Harrat Khaybar Nature Reserve
Location: Near Medina, in the volcanic Harrat Khaybar lava fields
- Why visit: Moon-like volcanic landscapes, craters, and black basalt fields make this one of Saudi’s most visually unique destinations
- Activities: Off-road adventures, geology tours, photography expeditions
- Conservation note: This area is protected due to its rare topography and archaeological significance
3. Al Khunfah Wildlife Reserve
Location: Northern Saudi Arabia, part of the Najd Plateau
- Why visit: A desert reserve that is home to endangered species like the Arabian oryx and sand gazelle
- Activities: Wildlife tracking (with licensed rangers), desert camping, and stargazing
- Tourism Saudi initiative: Development of sustainable viewing platforms and wildlife research partnerships
4. Farasan Islands Marine Sanctuary
Location: Red Sea, off the coast of Jazan
- Why visit: Pristine coral reefs, mangroves, dolphins, and rare bird species
- Activities: Snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and eco-marine tours
- Tourism Saudi role: Supporting coral restoration projects and regulating tourism to avoid reef damage
Also, get to know A Culinary Journey Through Saudi Arabia – Tourism Saudi Spotlight
Wildlife Experiences Supported by Tourism Saudi Initiatives
Eco-tourism and wildlife-focused travel are on the rise, and Tourism Saudi is crafting experiences that allow visitors to connect with nature in meaningful, respectful ways.
1. Arabian Leopard Initiatives
The Arabian Leopard is one of the most endangered big cats in the world. Native to Saudi’s southwestern mountains, it is now the focus of a major conservation effort led by:
- The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU)
- Tourism Saudi, which includes awareness campaigns in visitor centers and nature exhibitions
Efforts include:
- Breeding programs
- Protected habitats
- Educational outreach for visitors and locals
2. Bird Migration Watching in Saudi Wetlands
Every year, millions of migratory birds pass through Saudi Arabia. Wetlands and oases like Al-Ahsa and Al-Jubail serve as key rest stops.
Tourism Saudi’s support includes:
- Building observation towers and eco-lodges
- Offering seasonal birdwatching tours
- Collaborating with international ornithology groups
3. Camel and Desert Wildlife Experiences
For travelers interested in desert biodiversity, Tourism Saudi offers packages that highlight native species and ancient desert traditions.
- Wildlife highlights: Sand foxes, desert lizards, falcons, and ibex
- Cultural integration: Camel treks guided by Bedouins, wildlife photography with local experts, conservation storytelling sessions
Also, get to know Women and Tourism Saudi: A New Era of Exploration
How Tourism Saudi Ensures Sustainable Travel in Nature
Tourism Saudi provides clear guidelines for travelers, businesses, and developers to ensure the protection of fragile ecosystems:
Responsible Visitor Guidelines:
- Stay on marked trails
- Do not disturb wildlife
- Carry reusable water bottles and avoid litter
- Support locally owned eco-lodges and tours
Partnerships and Certifications:
- Collaborates with global sustainability rating agencies
- Incentivizes eco-certification for hotels, camps, and tour operators
- Provides grants to green startups in tourism
Contact us now to discover more!
Conclusion
The future of tourism in Saudi Arabia is rooted in sustainability, conservation, and respect for the natural world. Tourism Saudi is not only preserving the Kingdom’s diverse landscapes but also transforming them into world-class eco-tourism destinations that educate, inspire, and empower.
Whether you’re hiking through mountain forests in Asir, snorkeling over Red Sea coral reefs, or spotting wildlife in remote reserves, you’ll find that Tourism Saudi offers far more than just sightseeing—it offers a chance to connect deeply with one of the world’s last great ecological frontiers.
