Wildlife Owners in Saudi Arabia Must Get Licences by May 31st

Private owners of wildlife in Saudi Arabia have until May 31st to regularise their holdings through a formal licensing process, as part of efforts to curb illegal trade and strengthen environmental protection.

The initiative is being led by the National Center for Wildlife, which said the grace period allows individuals to legalise animals in their possession through the Fitri platform’s certificate of ownership service. Violations after the deadline will be subject to fines of SAR 10,000.

Applicants are required to submit detailed information about the animals, including scientific name, species and quantity, alongside identification methods and supporting documentation.

Required documents include a veterinary health certificate confirming the animal’s condition, age and sex, as well as proof of suitable housing that meets animal welfare and environmental standards.

Bandar Al-Faleh, Director of Regulations and Licensing at the National Center for Wildlife, said the process is intended to regulate ownership and enable licensed transport of wildlife both domestically and internationally.

The centre added that licences will not be issued for non-compliant cases, with stricter enforcement measures to follow once the grace period ends.

As part of broader enforcement efforts, the authority has established a specialised unit to address online wildlife crimes and has conducted training programmes to strengthen monitoring. Coordination is ongoing with security and customs authorities to enhance inspections at entry points and in local markets.