The initiative marks the start of this year’s afforestation season and underscores Saudi Arabia’s strong commitment to ecological preservation and sustainable development under the broader umbrella of the Saudi Green Initiative.

The drive, organized in collaboration with the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification, reflects the Kingdom’s growing efforts to restore vegetation cover, combat land degradation, and create healthier, greener communities.

The campaign’s central aim is to expand the Kingdom’s green footprint, protect biodiversity, and enhance the overall quality of life for future generations.

During the launch, Prince Faisal praised the national leadership for its continued support of environmental initiatives that have transformed both urban and rural landscapes across Saudi Arabia

He emphasized that projects like these are vital in promoting environmental balance, conserving natural resources, and combating the ongoing challenges of desertification.

“The support of our wise leadership is a driving force behind these efforts,” the governor stated, adding that sustainability has become a shared responsibility for citizens, government bodies, and the private sector alike.

The governor also highlighted Qassim’s impressive achievements under the Green Qassim Land Initiative, which has already planted more than 7 million seedlings across the region.

This accomplishment not only enhances the natural beauty of Qassim but also contributes directly to the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which aims to plant 10 billion trees across the Kingdom in the coming decades.

Prince Faisal explained that the afforestation drive plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Trees act as natural air purifiers, help lower temperatures, and support the restoration of soil health — all of which are key to ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future.

The initiative also focuses on protecting local ecosystems and wildlife habitats, ensuring that the region’s rich natural heritage is preserved for generations to come.

Qassim Municipality has played an active role in this green transformation, spearheading programs that focus on increasing green cover, organizing awareness campaigns, and promoting a culture of environmental responsibility among residents.

The municipality has also encouraged volunteerism, inviting schools, universities, and community organizations to take part in planting activities and environmental clean-up efforts.

These programs are designed not only to expand green spaces but also to inspire a sense of environmental stewardship among citizens.

In addition to tree planting, the region is working to address pollution and harmful environmental practices. Public education campaigns have been introduced to promote responsible water usage, reduce waste, and encourage recycling.

Such initiatives reflect a growing awareness of the need for sustainable living and align closely with the objectives of Vision 2030, which prioritizes environmental protection as a cornerstone of national progress.

Environmental experts in the region have also noted that tree-planting efforts like these contribute to reducing desert encroachment — one of the key environmental challenges in arid regions such as Qassim.

The newly planted trees help stabilize soil, reduce erosion, and support groundwater retention, making them vital tools in the Kingdom’s fight against desertification.

The governor’s leadership in advancing green initiatives has positioned Qassim as a model for other regions to follow. Under his guidance, the region has become known for its sustainable landscaping projects, eco-friendly urban planning, and community-driven environmental awareness programs.

His vision reflects a deep understanding that environmental health is essential to both social well-being and economic development.

As the 2025 afforestation season progresses, the Qassim governorate remains committed to expanding its efforts through partnerships with local municipalities, private companies, and volunteers.

With each tree planted, the region takes another step toward fulfilling the Kingdom’s vision of a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable Saudi Arabia.

The new planting season in Qassim is more than an environmental campaign — it is a powerful symbol of hope and renewal.

It embodies the Kingdom’s dedication to creating harmony between development and nature while ensuring a healthier, more vibrant future for all.

Conducted throughout 2024 and 2025, the study reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to sustainable conservation and environmental stewardship under the Vision 2030 framework.

The large-scale assessment, carried out across more than 400 sites, examined vital marine and coastal habitats such as coral reefs, seagrass meadows, mangrove forests, and mudflats.

The project was completed in collaboration with international experts using advanced research methods, including underwater imaging, satellite remote sensing, and internationally recognized ecological evaluation techniques.

The findings revealed that coral reefs along the eastern coast maintain a healthy cover rate of around 22 percent, with minimal bleaching not exceeding 2 percent.

Scientists noted that the dominant coral species, including Porites and Merulina, exhibited strong resilience to the region’s warm temperatures and changing environmental conditions.

These results demonstrate the natural strength of Saudi Arabia’s marine biodiversity and the success of recent conservation initiatives.

Equally promising were the results for seagrass meadows, which remain stable across most surveyed areas. These meadows are critical for maintaining marine life and supporting carbon storage.

Meanwhile, mangrove forests were found to span approximately 1,573 hectares, displaying dense and healthy vegetation, especially in key areas such as Ras Tanura and Tarout Island.

Mangroves play an essential role in protecting shorelines, preventing erosion, and providing nursery grounds for fish and other marine species.

The assessment also highlighted the richness of marine fauna in the Arabian Gulf. More than 80,000 fish from 90 distinct species were observed during the study, alongside sightings of large marine animals including dugongs, dolphins, turtles, sharks, and rays.

These findings reinforce the Arabian Gulf’s importance as a critical habitat supporting regional biodiversity and sustaining vital ecosystems.

In addition to marine life, the study recorded 176,836 birds representing 69 different species, emphasizing the region’s significance as a global stopover for migratory birds.

Peak bird numbers were noted during the autumn migration season, with Dammam Corniche and Tarout Bay identified as key breeding and aggregation zones.

Researchers even documented the first recorded sighting of Franklin’s gull in Saudi Arabia, marking an exciting discovery for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts.

National Center for Wildlife CEO Mohammed Qurban emphasized that the assessment reflects Saudi Arabia’s dedication to scientific research, biodiversity preservation, and sustainable ecosystem management.

He stated that the results will serve as an important scientific reference to guide national planning and decision-making aimed at protecting the Kingdom’s natural heritage.

Qurban also highlighted that maintaining healthy coastal and marine environments contributes directly to global climate stability, food security, and economic sustainability.

He affirmed that the study’s findings align with the broader objectives of the Saudi Green Initiative, which seeks to enhance environmental conservation, expand protected areas, and promote ecological restoration throughout the country.

The positive assessment of the eastern coastal environment builds on previous studies by the NCW, including extensive research in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf.

These initiatives demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s leadership in using data-driven methods to ensure the long-term protection of its natural ecosystems while balancing sustainable development.

The report’s conclusions mark an important step in the Kingdom’s journey toward environmental resilience. By integrating science, innovation, and policy, Saudi Arabia continues to establish itself as a regional leader in conservation and sustainable marine management.

The results from this study reaffirm that the Kingdom’s eastern coastline remains vibrant, biologically diverse, and capable of supporting both present and future generations.

This effort is designed to increase vegetation cover, reduce carbon emissions, lower urban temperatures, and enhance the overall landscape of one of Saudi Arabia’s most historic cities.

The initiative aligns with the broader goals of the Saudi Green Initiative and Vision 2030, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable development, climate action, and improved quality of life for residents.

By planting millions of trees along streets, parks, and neighborhoods, the project seeks to create a healthier, more vibrant urban environment that balances modern sustainability goals with the city’s rich Islamic heritage.

A key feature of the program is the use of digital tools such as smart tree tagging, which will allow officials and stakeholders to monitor the growth, health, and survival of each tree.

This technology ensures that the project is both efficient and accountable, providing real-time data to optimize care and resource allocation.

Beyond environmental benefits, the initiative is expected to improve public well-being. Increased green spaces have been shown to enhance mental and physical health, provide recreational opportunities, and promote community engagement.

By expanding shaded areas and reducing urban heat, the initiative will make Madinah more comfortable and livable for residents, while encouraging outdoor activity and social interaction.

The project also emphasizes community involvement, encouraging residents, local organizations, and volunteers to participate in planting and maintaining trees.

This collaborative approach not only strengthens community ties but also fosters a culture of environmental stewardship and civic responsibility.

In addition to urban greening, the initiative supports Madinah’s tourism sector by creating visually appealing spaces that enrich the city’s cultural and religious significance.

Visitors to the city will experience improved public spaces, tree-lined streets, and enhanced natural landscapes, complementing the historic and spiritual attractions that make Madinah a global destination.

Officials highlighted that the Green City Initiative is more than a tree-planting campaign; it is part of a strategic vision for sustainable urban development.

By integrating environmental goals with technological innovation, urban planning, and community engagement, Madinah is positioning itself as a model for sustainable green cities in the region.

The initiative is also expected to contribute to broader climate action efforts. Trees act as natural carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change, and improving air quality.

Expanding green cover in urban areas can also reduce heat islands, lower energy consumption for cooling, and enhance biodiversity by providing habitats for birds and other wildlife.

As Saudi Arabia continues to implement its Vision 2030 objectives, projects like the Green City Initiative demonstrate the Kingdom’s commitment to integrating environmental sustainability with urban development, economic growth, and social well-being.

Madinah’s approach reflects a forward-thinking strategy that combines modern urban planning, advanced technology, and community participation to create long-term positive impacts.

The 2.1 million tree planting project is expected to be completed in stages, with continuous monitoring to ensure maximum survival and effectiveness.

This landmark effort will not only transform the cityscape of Madinah but also serve as a blueprint for other cities in Saudi Arabia and the region looking to combine green infrastructure, climate resilience, and sustainable urban living.

Through the Green City Initiative, Madinah is taking a significant step toward becoming a sustainable, environmentally conscious, and livable city, highlighting the Kingdom’s broader vision of environmental leadership, community well-being, and balanced urban development.