Saudi Arabia Launches Middle East's First All-Female Sea Ranger Corps

By: WE Staff | Thursday, 31 July 2025

• Initiative based in the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve, covering a 170-km stretch of the Red Sea coastline
• 5 of the 11 team leaders are women, marking a shift in leadership dynamics
• South African conservationist Dominique du Toit led the marine training for the women

Saudi Arabia has launched the Middle East's first all-female sea ranger corps in the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve, marking a significant milestone in gender equity and environmental preservation. The force will patrol the 170-kilometer Red Sea coastline alongside male rangers and the Saudi Border Guard, safeguarding the region's delicate marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The initiative also sees 5 out of 11 team leaders being women, a shift in leadership dynamics.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve has successfully integrated 34 percent of women, out of its 246-ranger corps, including team leaders, into critical conservation roles, a significant achievement compared to the global average of 11 percent. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, promoting gender equality and diversity in various sectors with the message, "Women are encouraged to apply."

CEO of the Reserve, Andrew Zaloumis, praised the initiative and mentioned, "From our first ranger recruitment in 2021, we have prioritized inclusion. Today, women are helping shape the future of conservation in Saudi Arabia." He highlighted the global struggle for gender balance in conservation, particularly in marine roles, highlighting the increasing representation of women in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

South African conservationist Dominique du Toit has trained the female sea rangers appointed to the South African National Marine Reserve. The women underwent a year-long marine training process, including swimming instruction and fieldwork, to prepare for marine patrolling and aquatic safety. Dominique du Toit says, "This training reflects the discipline and determination of these women. Their inclusion is a significant step forward for gender equality and environmental preservation in the region."