The Royal Commission for AlUla’s (RCU) Wildlife Ranger Force has welcomed two new female recruits to its ranks in a major boost to gender inclusivity, empowerment, and the protection of northwest Arabia’s vulnerable natural habitats.

As the first women to enlist in the force, they will join more than 150 fellow Rangers in the field to patrol and monitor AlUla’s network of five vast nature reserves – Sharaan, Al Gharameel, Wadi Nakhlah, Harrat Alzabin, and Harrat Uwayrid Biosphere.

Fresh from completing 18 months of training, the newly appointed rangers, Wafaa Al Rashidi and Rawan Al Johani, will be stationed primarily within the Sharaan Nature Reserve.

Their daily duties will include contributing to ongoing efforts to conserve native species of flora and fauna, deter poaching, engage with community members, and monitor wildlife populations.

Both women, who hail from AlUla, are passionate about wildlife conservation. They said they are excited to put their training to the test and contribute to safeguarding AlUla’s biodiversity and irreplaceable natural landscape.

RCU has established 12,500 sq km of nature reserves, representing around 50% of AlUla County, with a plan to increase that to 80%, or over 20,000 sq km.

Dr Stephen Browne, Vice President of Wildlife and Natural Heritage at RCU, said: "The introduction of two new female recruits to RCU’s Wildlife Ranger Force is not just a symbolic gesture, but a tangible commitment to the values of Vision 2030 and our leadership's vision for a progressive and inclusive society.

“It marks a significant stride forward in bolstering the role of Saudi women within RCU’s natural habitat protection efforts. The participation of all community members is crucial to the overall success of our environmental initiatives in AlUla.”

He added: “The new rangers underwent a rigorous training programme, designed to equip them with the skills needed to carry out their responsibilities with utmost proficiency. There is a collective anticipation for the advancement of our new rangers, coupled with an ambitious vision to appoint the first Saudi woman as manager of a nature reserve soon.”

By making their mark in a traditionally male-dominated field, the new Rangers are challenging traditional stereotypes while raising awareness of RCU’s wildlife protection efforts to a wider national and international audience, a statement said.

Al Rashidi said: “My connection with the nature of AlUla runs deep. The place is incredibly beautiful with its stunning landscapes and diverse vegetation. I firmly believe in the potential of women to excel in this field, and that optimism drives me forward.”

AlUla’s Wildlife Rangers are the first front line staff of their kind in the kingdom. Made up of community members from across AlUla County, each ranger supports RCU’s mission to comprehensively regenerate AlUla and protect its natural landscape. – TradeArabia News Service