MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia is positioning its protected areas as global eco-tourism destinations while keeping conservation at the heart of every development decision, says the National Center for Wildlife.
A spokesperson told Arab News the Kingdom was building its eco-tourism sector on scientific principles that prioritize protecting ecosystems, supporting local communities and creating sustainable economic opportunities.
Nature comes first, with no protected area open to visitors until it has undergone environmental assessments measuring habitat sensitivity and visitor capacity.
Based on the findings, the authorities determine visitor routes, capacity limits, operating hours and accessible zones, with stricter controls applied to fragile habitats and during sensitive seasons.
Visits are managed through advance permits, designated trails and trained guides, while environmental impacts are continuously monitored to ensure tourism does not harm wildlife or their habitats.
