The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve Development Authority, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has announced the launch of its Integrated Development Management Plan (IDMP) for the 24,500-square-kilometer Reserve. This initiative outlines a comprehensive strategy aimed at restoring and conserving the Reserve’s diverse ecosystems, promoting ecotourism, and preserving cultural heritage in line with global standards.
Located in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, the Reserve is home to 15 distinct ecosystems, ranging from mountain ridges to coral reefs. The IDMP sets a framework for species reintroduction, including the Arabian oryx,
Arabian leopard, and cheetah, supported by an extensive habitat restoration project. The plan also focuses on enhancing the Reserve’s ecotourism offerings, such as Red Sea Global’s AMAALA project, while maintaining a balance with the needs of local communities.
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Andrew Zaloumis, CEO of the Reserve Development Authority, highlighted the significance of the plan: “The building blocks are in place to deliver the promise of the IDMP by 2030 – a Reserve of global conservation significance rooted in community.” He emphasized the pioneering techniques and technologies being employed to achieve the Reserve’s conservation goals.
The Reserve’s development aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader environmental initiatives, including the Saudi Green Initiative, which aims to protect 30% of the Kingdom’s terrestrial and marine areas by 2030. By 2025, the Reserve is expected to connect with major projects like NEOM and AlUla, forming a 70,000-square-kilometer environmental corridor.
The IDMP’s launch marks a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to lead in wildlife conservation and sustainable development, offering a model of environmental stewardship that integrates local and global partnerships.
