In a major stride toward biodiversity conservation, Saudi Arabia’s largest natural reserve, the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Natural Reserve (KSRNR), has successfully resettled more than 1,245 wild animals, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The announcement coincided with the celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22, highlighting the reserve’s ongoing efforts in wildlife protection and habitat restoration.

The KSRNR, situated in the northern part of the Kingdom, is a vast expanse of protected land spanning approximately 130,000 square kilometers. It stretches across the provinces of Hail, Tabuk, Al-Jouf, and the Northern Borders, encompassing a variety of geographical terrains, including mountains, plains, and plateaus. The area is also home to archaeological treasures, with some dating back to 8,000 BC.

The reserve boasts an impressive array of biodiversity, providing sanctuary to over 290 species of migratory birds, more than 550 types of wild and grazing plants, and upwards of 350 species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Among the most notable inhabitants are the rare Arabian gazelle, the majestic Arabian oryx, and the kestrel, a medium-sized bird of prey.

In addition to the animal resettlements, the reserve has also celebrated more than 120 recorded wildlife births, further signaling the health and vitality of its ecosystems. These milestones underscore the effectiveness of the KSRNR’s wildlife management and conservation strategies.

Since its inception, the KSRNR Development Authority has placed a strong emphasis on environmental education and public engagement. Its initiatives aim not only to preserve the region’s unique flora and fauna but also to instill a conservation mindset within the local community. Residents of nearby towns such as Al-Qurayyat, Tubarjal, and Turaif have been increasingly involved in these efforts.

One of the most impactful environmental programs launched by the authority has been its reforestation and land rehabilitation campaign. In 2024 alone, the reserve saw the planting of over 2.4 million seedlings and the rehabilitation of 700,000 hectares of degraded land. These efforts are vital for improving soil quality, increasing vegetation cover, and mitigating the effects of desertification.

Another significant environmental action involved the removal of 119 tonnes of hazardous waste, an effort that reflects the reserve’s commitment to maintaining a clean and safe habitat for wildlife. Furthermore, the reserve’s team, along with several volunteers and environmental groups, carried out a voluntary seed-scattering initiative, dispersing approximately four tonnes of native seeds across six valleys within the reserve.

The targeted valleys included Nayal Valley of Niall Shuaib Abu Talihat, Fager Valley, Shaib Al-Qilayyib, Sarbout Plath, Mot, and Masaha valleys. The two-month campaign was aimed at promoting natural regeneration, enhancing the green cover, and supporting native plant growth, all of which are essential to sustaining a balanced ecosystem.

As a crucial stopover for migratory birds, the reserve plays a key role in international biodiversity networks. With its rich and diverse landscapes, KSRNR continues to attract attention from environmentalists, researchers, and eco-tourism enthusiasts alike.

The achievements of the King Salman Reserve not only highlight Saudi Arabia’s dedication to ecological preservation but also place the Kingdom among regional leaders in sustainable environmental practices. As global environmental challenges mount, initiatives like those at KSRNR demonstrate the potential of focused, large-scale conservation efforts to make a tangible impact.