8 conservation programs underway at Saudi wildlife center

The Kingdom's National Center for Wildlife aims to produce 15,000 Houbara bustards at its breeding center by 2026. (NCW photo)
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Updated 09 February 2024
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8 conservation programs underway at Saudi wildlife center

TAIF: Eight breeding and conservation programs are underway at a Saudi wildlife center dedicated to preserving endangered species.

Houbara bustards, Arabian oryxes, North African ostriches, mountain gazelles and goats, lynxes, and hares are among the animals being reared at the Prince Saud Al-Faisal Center for Wildlife Research in Taif.

Located 36 km from the city and 1,400 meters above sea level, the fenced nature reserve is spread over 35 square kilometers of semi-desert dominated by acacia senegal trees and wild grasses.

Researchers at the center monitor the breeding of species in their natural environments, and study ecosystems, while also working to raise public awareness about environmental issues.

Acacia tortillis and mimosa are among several species of tree found in the reserve which provide shade and food for some of the animals.

 

 

 


Kingdom arrests 18,805 illegals in one week

Updated 03 January 2026
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Kingdom arrests 18,805 illegals in one week

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 18,805 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

A total of 11,752 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,239 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 2,814 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,739 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 62 percent were Ethiopian, 37 percent Yemeni, and 1 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 46 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 14 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators, the SPA reported.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($267,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.