Saudi Arabia has launched a significant initiative to align scientific research with the management needs of its royal reserves, as part of its Vision 2030 environmental strategy. The Mahmiyah forum, hosted by the University of Jeddah, convened in Jeddah on Wednesday, bringing together researchers, policymakers, and environmental specialists to discuss sustainable management of the Kingdom’s protected areas.
Under the patronage of Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, the forum saw the signing of seven memoranda of understanding with various organizations, including the National Center for Wildlife. The event, themed “Protecting a Legacy … Sustaining a Nation, ” featured 10 panel discussions and an exhibition showcasing environmental innovations from royal reserve authorities and research centers.
Dr. Shatha Ibrahim Al-Qurashi, chair of the forum’s scientific committee, emphasized the goal of developing a research framework that addresses the practical needs of conservation work. She highlighted the importance of building a research agenda that supports the protection of reserves, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem restoration.
Al-Qurashi noted that the forum serves as a platform for scientific dialogue, bringing together expertise to enhance coordination and support national efforts toward environmental sustainability. She stressed that universities play a crucial role not only in producing knowledge but also in applying research to support national priorities.
The focus on royal reserves is strategic, as they intersect with various priorities such as biodiversity protection, ecotourism, and community development. This aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s environmental goals, although Al-Qurashi clarified that other environmental issues remain important.
Saudi Arabia’s royal reserves, managed by independent authorities under the Royal Reserves Council established in 2018, are central to the Kingdom’s target of protecting 30 percent of its terrestrial and marine areas by 2030. This commitment, part of the Saudi Green Initiative, has already increased protected land from 4.2 percent to 18.3 percent and marine areas from 2.5 percent to 16.2 percent.
Ahmad Al-Boug, vice president of the National Center for Wildlife, highlighted the progress made in recent years, noting that protected areas are vital for conserving biodiversity and ecosystems. However, he acknowledged that achieving long-term goals requires stronger links between research institutions and management agencies.
Al-Qurashi explained that the university’s role complements the work of reserve authorities by contributing scientific capabilities, academic expertise, and data analysis. This collaboration aims to develop practical solutions that address real conservation needs.
The forum’s organizers hope that discussions will lead to new research projects and partnerships that deliver measurable environmental benefits. The event is designed to foster dialogue and cooperation among experts from different disciplines, encouraging them to identify common challenges and solutions.
Al-Qurashi expressed hope that participants would leave with ideas for cooperation and that connections formed during the event would evolve into impactful projects benefiting the environment and sustainability.
As Saudi Arabia’s network of protected areas expands, ensuring that research is guided by real-world conservation needs is seen as crucial. The Mahmiyah forum represents a step towards bridging the gap between knowledge and action.
