6 of Saudi Arabia's nature reserves just made the global conservation list
From dramatic deserts to wildlife-rich islands, these protected reserves have earned international recognition for conservation and biodiversity
If you think Saudi Arabia is only about dazzling cityscapes and giga-projects, think again.
It’s also home to some seriously stunning natural landscapes. And now, six of the Kingdom’s reserves have earned a spot on the IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas, an international benchmark that recognises sites meeting the highest standards of conservation, biodiversity protection and sustainable management.
Saudi Arabia is home to several natural reserves, 6 of which have been added to the IUCN Green List of Protected & Conserved Areas. pic.twitter.com/HFcosPnSIK
— CIC Saudi Arabia (@CICSaudi) April 2, 2026
The announcement highlights the growing focus on preserving Saudi Arabia’s diverse environments, from vast desert ecosystems and rugged mountains to coastal islands and wildlife habitats.
It also reinforces the Kingdom’s efforts to protect native species while opening the door to future eco-tourism experiences.
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The six reserves added to the IUCN Green List showcase just how varied Saudi Arabia’s natural terrain really is.
Ibex Reserve
A rugged mountain landscape that provides a natural habitat for the Arabian ibex, along with hundreds of plant and animal species.
King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve
One of the largest protected areas in the region, home to rich biodiversity and has five Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas.
King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve
Known for its striking topographical diversity, with meadows, floodplains and a wide range of flora and fauna.
‘Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve
Located along the edge of the Empty Quarter, this is the largest continuous sand sea on Earth, featuring dramatic dunes and one of the world’s most unique desert ecosystems. ‘Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve also marks the Kingdom’s first Unesco Natural Heritage Site.
Sharaan Nature Reserve
Set within AlUla’s spectacular landscapes, this reserve is known for its rock formations, wildlife and conservation initiatives.
Farasan Islands Reserve
A coastal sanctuary featuring mangrove forests, marine life and the rare Farasan gazelle, alongside hundreds of plant, bird and fish species.
Why this matters
The IUCN Green List recognises protected areas that demonstrate strong conservation outcomes, effective management, and long-term sustainability.
With six sites now included, Saudi Arabia joins a select group of countries with internationally recognised reserves.
For residents and travellers, it also indicates a growing interest in nature-led experiences across the Kingdom. From desert adventures to wildlife spotting and scenic getaways, these protected landscapes could soon become some of Saudi Arabia’s most captivating outdoor destinations you didn’t know existed.
While some of these reserves aren’t fully open to the public just yet, they’re definitely ones to watch. Because if this is the future of eco-tourism in Saudi Arabia, it’s looking pretty wild – in the best way possible.
Images: IUCN / SPA / Royal Commission for AlUla
