Saudi Arabia to Issue Official Passports for Camels

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: The Saudi government has announced plans to issue official passports for camels, underscoring the cultural and economic significance of the animal in the kingdom. The initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, aims to establish a comprehensive national database to better manage the country’s estimated 2.2 million camels as of 2024.

The move is expected to enhance productivity and efficiency across the camel sector, streamline trading and transportation, and protect the rights of camel owners. Officials shared images of the green passports on social media, featuring Saudi Arabia’s coat of arms and a golden camel illustration.

According to state broadcaster Al Ekhbariya, the passport will serve as an official proof of ownership and simplify transactions involving camels. It will include detailed information such as the camel’s name, date of birth, breed, sex, color, place of birth, and a unique passport and microchip number. High-resolution photographs of the camel from both sides will ensure accurate identification.

The document will also include a dedicated vaccination record table, certified with the veterinarian’s signature, stamp, and name, ensuring proper tracking of the camel’s health.

Camels hold a central place in Saudi history and society, historically serving as transport animals and symbols of wealth. Today, they are at the heart of a thriving breeding and festival industry, with camel beauty contests attracting high-value sales. Authorities have recently cracked down on illegal cosmetic procedures aimed at altering camels’ natural appearance to maintain authenticity in competitions.

Saudi Arabia ranks among the world’s top camel-owning nations, with unofficial figures suggesting around 80,000 camel owners nationwide. Research indicates camels have been integral to the Arabian Peninsula for millennia, with ancient carvings dating back around 7,000 years.

With this new initiative, the kingdom seeks to modernize camel management, safeguard owners’ rights, and ensure the preservation of this iconic species for future generations.