By Muhammad Rafiq
RIYADH: Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve proudly announces the expansion of its pioneering female ranger unit, the first and largest in the Middle East. With 40 new recruits, women now comprise 34% of the Reserve’s ranger team—surpassing the global average of 11% and setting a new regional benchmark. These 84 nature rangers play a critical role in protecting the Reserve’s landscapes, culture and wildlife.
The addition of these female nature rangers underscores Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, reflecting strategic commitments toward environmental sustainability and greater participation of women in the workforce. Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve prioritizes local communities in its approach, with community residents comprising 88% of the Reserve’s employees. This commitment ensures both economic empowerment and effective, sustainable management of the Reserve’s natural and cultural assets.
“Women are breaking new ground at Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve, one patrol at a time,” says Andrew Zaloumis, CEO of Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve. “Their presence strengthens our conservation efforts, brings new ideas to the table, and helps connect our communities to conservation in ways we have never seen before.”
The Reserve’s female ranger unit calls itself “Al Anqas” (The Phoenix), symbolizing a new beginning for Saudi women in conservation. Through their daily patrols and interactions, these rangers challenge perceptions and engage local communities in meaningful discussions around nature protection and conservation practices.
Rogayah Awad Al-Balawi, a ranger from Al-Sudayd in Al Wajh Governorate, embodies the spirit of this initiative. Her journey, from a traditional Bedouin upbringing to becoming one of Saudi Arabia’s pioneering female wildlife rangers, highlights resilience and determination. “The job was described as a ranger, which was a new concept for me. No Saudi woman had worked in this field before, so I didn’t know exactly what to expect,” Rogayah recalls. Now, alongside her colleagues, she regularly patrols the Reserve’s vast landscapes, using her local knowledge to safeguard its wildlife and habitats. “Having local women in these roles is crucial. We understand the land, its people, and its unique needs,” she emphasizes.
Led by a female-driven team from the C-suite to socio-economic development, the Reserve actively supports women in overcoming barriers to entry and excelling in conservation. Asma Khdeer, Senior Manager of Capacity Building and Natural Resource Use Management, has played a key role in ranger training. ““Who better to support local people to make meaningful change in their community than someone who understands the challenges?”?” Asma says. She describes the pride watching new recruits navigate rugged terrains, track wildlife, and participate in their first patrols. “It felt like the stereotypes we’ve faced as women were finally being dismantled—not with speeches but actions. That’s what makes our work transformative. Women bring a unique perspective to conservation, thinking about families and future generations.”
Each year, thousands of applicants compete for limited positions within the Reserve’s ranger training program. Selected candidates undergo an intensive four-day selection process, testing their physical fitness, teamwork, and character. Successful recruits then participate in a rigorous nine-week training course led by the Reserve’s Capacity Building Supervisor, Ali Albalawi. This comprehensive training covers essential topics such as conservation management, technical field skills, wildlife monitoring, tracking, off-road driving, cultural heritage conservation, self-defense, incident reporting, first aid, and disaster management.
Following their initial training, rangers benefit from ongoing education and career growth opportunities, including advanced leadership development, habitat restoration techniques, biodiversity surveys, and fire management training. Ranger roles at Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve have become highly sought-after positions, recognized nationally by community leaders, law enforcement agencies, and conservation stakeholders as central to Saudi Arabia’s environmental sustainability goals under Vision 2030.
By empowering local women and providing critical employment and training opportunities, the Reserve continues to reinforce its vision of creating a vibrant society and thriving economy. This International Women’s Day, Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve celebrates the growing achievements of women who are shaping the future of conservation in Saudi Arabia and inspiring the broader region.
