Saudi Arabia Expands All-Women Ranger Unit in Landmark Initiative
Forty female rangers recruited for conservation efforts at the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve, enhancing women’s roles in environmental protection.
The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve has announced the augmentation of its all-women ranger unit in commemoration of International Women’s Day.
This initiative is recognized as one of the largest of its kind in the Middle East.
The addition of 40 new recruits has elevated the proportion of female rangers within the team to 34 percent, surpassing the global average of 11 percent and setting a new benchmark in the region.
These 84 rangers are integral to the protection of the reserve's landscapes, culture, and wildlife.
The unit, referred to as Al Anqas, meaning 'the phoenix,' symbolizes a new beginning for women in conservation efforts in Saudi Arabia.
Through regular patrols, the rangers foster community engagement and discussions centered on nature protection and conservation practices.
Rogayah Awad Al-Balawi, a ranger hailing from Al-Sudayd in Al-Wajh Governorate, exemplifies the initiative’s impact.
Transitioning from a traditional Bedouin upbringing, Al-Balawi represents resilience in becoming one of Saudi Arabia's first female wildlife rangers.
She noted, "Having local women in these roles is crucial.
We understand the land, its people, and its unique needs."
Asma Khdeer, senior manager of capacity building and natural resource management, has been instrumental in the training of these rangers.
She stated, "Who is better to support local people to make meaningful change in their community than someone who understands the challenges?" Khdeer expressed pride as she observed new recruits mastering rugged terrain and participating in their inaugural patrols.
Competitive selection for the ranger training program involves thousands of applicants each year.
Chosen candidates endure a rigorous four-day selection process assessing their physical fitness, teamwork, and character, followed by an intensive nine-week training course.
This training encompasses various topics, including conservation management, wildlife monitoring, tracking, off-road driving, cultural heritage conservation, self-defense, incident reporting, first aid, and disaster management.
The reserve remains committed to fostering a vibrant society and a thriving economy through the empowerment of local women, offering them significant employment and training opportunities.
This initiative is recognized as one of the largest of its kind in the Middle East.
The addition of 40 new recruits has elevated the proportion of female rangers within the team to 34 percent, surpassing the global average of 11 percent and setting a new benchmark in the region.
These 84 rangers are integral to the protection of the reserve's landscapes, culture, and wildlife.
The unit, referred to as Al Anqas, meaning 'the phoenix,' symbolizes a new beginning for women in conservation efforts in Saudi Arabia.
Through regular patrols, the rangers foster community engagement and discussions centered on nature protection and conservation practices.
Rogayah Awad Al-Balawi, a ranger hailing from Al-Sudayd in Al-Wajh Governorate, exemplifies the initiative’s impact.
Transitioning from a traditional Bedouin upbringing, Al-Balawi represents resilience in becoming one of Saudi Arabia's first female wildlife rangers.
She noted, "Having local women in these roles is crucial.
We understand the land, its people, and its unique needs."
Asma Khdeer, senior manager of capacity building and natural resource management, has been instrumental in the training of these rangers.
She stated, "Who is better to support local people to make meaningful change in their community than someone who understands the challenges?" Khdeer expressed pride as she observed new recruits mastering rugged terrain and participating in their inaugural patrols.
Competitive selection for the ranger training program involves thousands of applicants each year.
Chosen candidates endure a rigorous four-day selection process assessing their physical fitness, teamwork, and character, followed by an intensive nine-week training course.
This training encompasses various topics, including conservation management, wildlife monitoring, tracking, off-road driving, cultural heritage conservation, self-defense, incident reporting, first aid, and disaster management.
The reserve remains committed to fostering a vibrant society and a thriving economy through the empowerment of local women, offering them significant employment and training opportunities.
