As the world marks the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, this year’s theme “Rangelands: Recognize. Respect. Restore.” reminds us of a fundamental truth: land is one of our most valuable resources, yet also one of the most threatened.

Rangelands sustain the lives and livelihoods of nearly two billion people worldwide. They are essential to food security, water cycles, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Yet many of these ecosystems are already degraded or face growing pressure.

Desertification, land degradation, and drought are no longer distant environmental concerns. They directly affect economies, communities, and the stability of entire regions. They weaken natural resources, reduce land productivity, and increase the vulnerability of those who depend on them.

In response to these challenges, Saudi Arabia is advancing an ambitious environmental agenda. Anchored by the Saudi Green Initiative, the Kingdom’s efforts bring together afforestation, land restoration, ecosystem protection, and climate action.

Across Saudi Arabia, millions of trees are being planted, degraded lands are being restored, and protected areas are being expanded. The National Afforestation Programme and wider ecosystem restoration initiatives are helping increase vegetation cover, strengthen biodiversity, and preserve the Kingdom’s natural capital.

Initiatives in AlUla also demonstrate the value of integrated approaches. By rehabilitating rangelands, reintroducing native species, and restoring ecological balance, these programmes show how environmental protection can support sustainable tourism and local economic development.

This progress is driven first and foremost by the leadership and commitment of national institutions. The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification plays a central role in restoring degraded land, conserving biodiversity, and strengthening climate resilience. Its work includes building institutional and technical capacities, modernizing environmental data systems, strengthening operational frameworks, and expanding international cooperation.

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture also contributes to this national momentum by advancing sustainable natural resource management and water security. In a country shaped by arid conditions and limited freshwater resources, combating desertification is closely linked to more efficient, integrated, and sustainable water management.

Together, these efforts reflect a broader commitment to nature-based solutions supported by science, public policy, innovation, and community participation.

Within this context, the UNDP Country Office in Saudi Arabia is proud to work alongside the Government of Saudi Arabia and national institutions in support of their environmental ambitions. These partnerships help strengthen capacities, mobilize expertise and innovation, improve monitoring systems, and promote integrated approaches to sustainable land management.

Success also depends on the people who live closest to these ecosystems. Communities, pastoralists, and land stewards hold invaluable knowledge of the landscapes they protect. Their experience and stewardship are essential to preserving and restoring ecosystems for future generations.

Looking ahead, the momentum generated in Riyadh will continue through the upcoming 17th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, which will be held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, from 17 to 28 August 2026, under the theme “Restoring Land. Restoring Hope.” The theme builds on the spirit of the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, reminding us that restoration is not only about land, but also about restoring dignity, opportunity, and hope for the people and communities who depend on it. COP17 will also mark an important moment of continuity, with the handover of the UNCCD COP Presidency from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Mongolia, while Saudi Arabia’s COP16 legacy programme continues to advance action on land restoration, drought resilience, and sustainable development.

To recognize the true value of our land.

To respect those who depend on and protect it.

To restore ecosystems with urgency and ambition.

Protecting land is not only an environmental imperative. It is a foundation for sustainable development, economic resilience, and human well-being. By bringing together national leadership, expertise, innovation, and community engagement, we can help ensure that our lands remain productive, resilient, and thriving for generations to come.