Uruq Bani Ma’arid Protected Area Added to UNESCO World Heritage List
Najran's Uruq Bani Ma’arid has been recognised by UNESCO and the IUCN Green List, marking a milestone for conservation in Saudi.
The Uruq Bani Ma’arid Protected Area has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and added to the Green List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, following its fulfilment of internationally approved conservation criteria.
Certificates confirming both listings were formally received by Prince Jalawi bin Abdulaziz bin Musaed, Emir of Najran, during a meeting in Najran attended by Dr Mohammed Qurban, Chief Executive Officer of the National Center for Wildlife, alongside senior officials from the centre.
The dual recognition reflects the application of international benchmarks in protected area management and conservation governance. Officials noted that the listings support environmental objectives under Saudi Vision 2030 and contribute to improving the Kingdom’s position across global environmental and sustainability indicators.
During the meeting, an overview was presented on ongoing conservation efforts in the Najran region, including initiatives to protect wildlife species, maintain ecosystem balance, and improve the operational efficiency of protected areas nationwide.
