RIYADH — In a significant win for conservation efforts, the National Center for Wildlife (NCW) has announced the designation of the Farasan Islands Reserve as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. This marks the first Saudi marine reserve to achieve this status, bolstering the Kingdom’s commitment to environmental protection and biodiversity preservation. The announcement was made earlier this week, solidifying Saudi Arabia’s role in global conservation initiatives.
Located in the southern Red Sea, approximately 50 kilometers off the coast of Jazan, the Farasan Islands Reserve joins a network of over 2,400 globally important wetlands. This inclusion comes just one year after Saudi Arabia officially joined the Ramsar Convention in 2024, demonstrating a rapid and dedicated approach to environmental stewardship. The designation underscores the nation’s progress toward the goals outlined in Saudi Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative.
The Significance of Ramsar Designation for Saudi Arabia
The Ramsar Convention, established in 1971, provides a framework for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. Wetlands are crucial for biodiversity, water regulation, and climate change mitigation. According to the NCW, the Farasan Islands Reserve’s inclusion highlights the Kingdom’s dedication to protecting these vital ecosystems.
Dr. Mohammad Qurban, CEO of the National Center for Wildlife, stated that the listing is a “strategic milestone” in the Kingdom’s environmental progress. He emphasized the importance of protecting wetlands and conserving migratory water birds, aligning with international best practices. The designation also aims to maximize the environmental sector’s economic and social benefits, fostering collaboration on sustainable development goals.
A Rich Ecosystem
The Farasan Archipelago, comprising around 200 islands covering over 600 square kilometers, is a biodiversity hotspot. It features a diverse range of ecosystems, including extensive coral reefs, vital mangrove forests, and productive estuaries. These habitats support a wealth of marine life and provide critical breeding and feeding grounds for numerous species.
The reserve is particularly important as a stopover point for migratory water birds traveling between continents. It also provides a haven for rare and endangered species, contributing significantly to regional and global biodiversity. The area’s pristine white sand beaches and turquoise waters further enhance its ecological value and appeal.
National Wetland Survey and Conservation Efforts
The NCW is actively engaged in a comprehensive national strategy to survey and assess wetlands throughout the Kingdom. To date, over 607 potential wetland sites have been identified, with 244 already designated as protected areas. This systematic approach ensures that valuable ecosystems receive the necessary protection.
However, conservation extends beyond simply designating protected areas. The NCW is also implementing projects focused on rehabilitating degraded ecosystems. Additionally, the center prioritizes raising public awareness about the environmental importance of these lands, promoting ecological balance and biodiversity. These efforts are crucial for long-term sustainability.
The Kingdom’s broader environmental initiatives, including the Saudi Green Initiative, aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. Protecting and restoring marine ecosystems like the Farasan Islands Reserve is a key component of this ambitious plan. The initiative also focuses on sustainable tourism and responsible resource management.
The Farasan Islands Reserve’s designation as a protected area is expected to attract increased research and monitoring efforts. This will provide valuable data for adaptive management and ensure the long-term health of the ecosystem. The NCW is also working to strengthen collaboration with regional and international organizations to address shared environmental challenges.
The inclusion of the Farasan Islands Reserve in the Ramsar Convention also supports the Kingdom’s efforts to promote coastal conservation. This is particularly important given the increasing threats posed by climate change, pollution, and unsustainable fishing practices. The designation provides a framework for integrated management and sustainable development.
Looking ahead, the NCW plans to continue its national wetland survey and expand the network of protected areas. The center will also focus on developing and implementing effective management plans for each designated site. The success of these efforts will depend on continued funding, collaboration, and public support. Further assessments are expected within the next year to determine the specific impacts of the Ramsar designation on local communities and economic activities.
