The Saudi National Center for Wildlife has highlighted that violators of the new environmental protection laws for this year's hunting season, which runs from September 1 to January 31, 2026, will face prosecution.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, amended laws have been put in place to protect biodiversity, preserve ecological balance, and ensure sustainable use of natural resources in accordance with the country's Environmental Law.
The guidelines are based on fresh research, international best practices, lessons learned from prior seasons, and reflect the Kingdom's international obligations.
It is further prohibited along the Kingdom’s coasts up to 20 km inland, the SPA added.
Hunting is restricted to approved methods. The use of shotguns, nets, electronic lures, or other techniques that capture multiple birds at once are prohibited.
Violators face legal penalties enforced by the Ministry of Interior’s Special Forces for Environmental Security in coordination with the center.
Hunting is only permitted for species listed on the center's official website and the Fitri platform. The SPA reported that endangered species remain permanently off limits.
Licensed firearm hunters and falconers registered with the Saudi Falcons Club must seek licenses via the Fitri platform.
Hunting is also prohibited in certain locations, such as cities, villages, farms, rest stops, residential areas, near military or industrial sites, protected zones, and megaprojects like Neom, Qiddiya, and The Red Sea Project.
