In a significant step aimed at regulating and developing one of the Kingdom's most important livestock sectors, the Deputy Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Engineer Mansour bin Hilal Al-Mashiti, launched the "Camel Passport" project. This ambitious initiative aims to document camel identities and comprehensively regulate the sector, thereby enhancing the efficiency of services provided and bolstering the reliability of this vital sector in local and international markets, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Historical background and cultural significance
This initiative stems from the deep historical and cultural significance of camels in Saudi Arabia and the Arabian Peninsula. Known as the “ships of the desert,” camels are not merely livestock; they are a symbol of authenticity and heritage, and an integral part of national identity. The Kingdom hosts major international events such as the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival, which attracts billions of riyals in investment and underscores the importance of documenting and preserving rare breeds, making a formal documentation system essential.
Project details and objectives
The ministry explained that the camel passport is a comprehensive identification document designed to create a reliable record for each camel. The passport contains essential data such as the microchip number, the camel's name, date and breed, sex, color, and place of birth, as well as photographs of the animal. This project, part of the National Program for the Development of the Livestock and Fisheries Sector, aims to provide standardized digital and regulatory tools to serve this vital sector, linking ownership and breed data with accurate health and regulatory information.
Economic and regulatory impact
On the economic front, the passport is expected to revolutionize the regulation of camel sales and trading by streamlining and officially documenting transfers, thus protecting owners' rights and facilitating proof of ownership. It will also enhance the market value of camels, as they will be priced based on accurate and documented data, including their health, lineage purity, and pedigree, thereby increasing transparency in local and international auctions and markets. Furthermore, the passport includes a vaccination schedule, meticulously recording veterinary vaccinations, which will improve veterinary oversight and facilitate the monitoring of infectious diseases.
Strategic dimensions and future vision
This step represents a strategic dimension that transcends local boundaries. Regionally, the Kingdom is solidifying its position as a leader in camel development, and this experience could become a model for other Gulf countries. Internationally, the existence of an official documentation system enhances the credibility of Saudi camels in global markets, opening new horizons for export and participation in international competitions. The launch of the camel passport falls within the broader framework of achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to modernize traditional sectors, diversify income sources, and enhance food security, while preserving the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage.
