Makkah Deputy Governor Launches 2026 National Greening Season

Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, officially inaugurated the 2026 National Greening Season in Jeddah on October 11, 2026. The launch is part of the National Greening Program’s ongoing efforts to achieve the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative, which aims to develop vegetation cover and enhance environmental sustainability across the Kingdom. The event highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to combating climate change and promoting a greener future.

Context and Background

The National Greening Program is a key initiative under the Saudi Green Initiative, launched in 2021 by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The program seeks to plant 10 billion trees across Saudi Arabia in the coming decades, equivalent to rehabilitating 40 million hectares of degraded land. This ambitious target is part of the Kingdom’s broader environmental strategy to reduce carbon emissions, increase reliance on clean energy, and protect natural ecosystems. The 2026 National Greening Season builds on previous successes and underscores the Kingdom’s leadership in regional environmental efforts.

Makkah Region, one of the most significant areas in the country, has been a focal point for greening activities. The program reported that more than 7.7 million trees had been planted across the region between 2021 and the current year, representing 24.7% of the target of approximately 31.3 million trees set for 2030. This progress demonstrates the Kingdom’s systematic approach to achieving its environmental goals.

Key Details

The inauguration ceremony, held in Jeddah, was attended by officials from the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, as well as representatives from the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification. Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz emphasized the importance of community participation in achieving the program’s objectives. The 2026 season will focus on planting native tree species that are well-suited to the local climate, such as acacia and ghaf, which require minimal water and contribute to biodiversity.

The National Greening Program has also been instrumental in creating job opportunities in the environmental sector and promoting eco-tourism. By restoring vegetation cover, the program helps combat desertification, improve air quality, and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. The program aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including climate action and life on land.

Implications and Impact

The launch of the 2026 National Greening Season carries significant implications for Saudi Arabia and the wider region. Environmentally, the increased vegetation cover will help sequester carbon dioxide, reduce soil erosion, and support wildlife habitats. Economically, the program stimulates green investments and fosters innovation in sustainable practices. Socially, it raises awareness about environmental stewardship and encourages community involvement in planting and maintaining trees.

On the international stage, Saudi Arabia’s greening efforts contribute to global climate goals, including the Paris Agreement. The Kingdom’s leadership in this area enhances its role as a responsible global actor and a key player in environmental diplomacy. The success of the National Greening Program serves as a model for other countries in the Middle East and beyond, demonstrating that desert nations can achieve significant environmental restoration through dedicated efforts.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The 2026 National Greening Season is a direct reflection of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes environmental sustainability as a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s future. By enhancing vegetation cover, the program supports the Vision’s goals of improving quality of life, diversifying the economy, and creating a sustainable environment for future generations. As Saudi Arabia continues to advance its green initiatives, it reinforces its commitment to a prosperous and sustainable future, both domestically and globally.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the National Greening Season?

A1. The National Greening Season is an annual campaign under the National Greening Program, part of the Saudi Green Initiative, aimed at planting trees and restoring vegetation across Saudi Arabia to combat desertification and enhance environmental sustainability.

Q2. Who inaugurated the 2026 National Greening Season?

A2. Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, inaugurated the 2026 season in Jeddah on October 11, 2026, highlighting the Kingdom’s commitment to environmental goals.

Q3. How many trees have been planted in Makkah Region since 2021?

A3. More than 7.7 million trees have been planted in Makkah Region between 2021 and 2026, representing 24.7% of the target of approximately 31.3 million trees set for 2030.

Q4. What is the target number of trees for Makkah Region by 2030?

A4. The target for Makkah Region is approximately 31.3 million trees by 2030, as part of the National Greening Program’s broader goals.

Q5. What is the Saudi Green Initiative?

A5. The Saudi Green Initiative, launched in 2021 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is a national strategy to combat climate change, increase vegetation cover, and promote sustainable practices across the Kingdom.

Q6. How many trees does the National Greening Program aim to plant nationwide?

A6. The program aims to plant 10 billion trees across Saudi Arabia in the coming decades, rehabilitating 40 million hectares of degraded land.

Q7. Which government bodies are involved in the National Greening Program?

A7. The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture and the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification are key entities implementing the program.

Q8. What types of trees are being planted?

A8. Native species such as acacia and ghaf are prioritized due to their suitability to the local climate, low water requirements, and benefits for biodiversity.

Q9. How does the program contribute to combating desertification?

A9. By restoring vegetation cover, the program helps stabilize soil, reduce erosion, and prevent the expansion of deserts, thereby combating desertification.

Q10. What are the economic benefits of the National Greening Program?

A10. The program stimulates green investments, creates jobs in the environmental sector, and promotes eco-tourism, contributing to economic diversification.

Q11. How does the program engage local communities?

A11. The program encourages community participation through tree-planting events, educational campaigns, and volunteer opportunities, fostering environmental stewardship.

Q12. What impact does the program have on air quality?

A12. Increased vegetation helps absorb pollutants and carbon dioxide, leading to improved air quality and healthier environments for residents.

Q13. How does the program align with global climate goals?

A13. The program supports the Paris Agreement by sequestering carbon and promoting sustainable land management, contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change.

Q14. What is the role of the Deputy Governor of Makkah Region in the program?

A14. The Deputy Governor oversees and supports the implementation of the program in the region, ensuring alignment with national objectives and encouraging local participation.

Q15. How does the program benefit wildlife?

A15. Restored vegetation provides habitats and food sources for wildlife, helping to preserve biodiversity and protect endangered species.

Q16. What are the water management strategies used in the program?

A16. The program uses water-efficient irrigation methods, such as drip irrigation, and selects drought-resistant tree species to minimize water consumption.

Q17. How does the program support Saudi Vision 2030?

A17. It aligns with Vision 2030 by enhancing quality of life, promoting environmental sustainability, and diversifying the economy through green initiatives.

Q18. What achievements has the program made so far?

A18. Since 2021, millions of trees have been planted across Saudi Arabia, with Makkah Region alone contributing over 7.7 million trees, demonstrating significant progress.

Q19. How can individuals participate in the National Greening Season?

A19. Individuals can participate by volunteering in tree-planting events, spreading awareness, and supporting sustainable practices in their communities.

Q20. What is the long-term vision of the National Greening Program?

A20. The long-term vision is to create a green, sustainable Saudi Arabia with thriving ecosystems, improved climate resilience, and a better quality of life for all.

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