Saudi Arabia Begins Issuing Passports for Camels

Saudi Arabia has introduced a new “camel passport project” as part of efforts to regulate one of the kingdom’s most culturally and economically significant sectors.

Announced by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, the initiative is designed to formally document camels’ identities, ownership, health status, and breeds, creating a standardized system recognized at both local and international levels.

Under the program, each camel will receive an official passport containing detailed identification information, including a microchip number, passport number, name, date of birth, breed, sex, color, and place of birth.

The document will also feature photographs of the animal from both sides to ensure accurate identification. In addition, a dedicated vaccination section will record veterinary immunizations, certified by licensed veterinarians.

Officials say the project aims to improve transparency, enhance service efficiency, and tighten controls over camel sales, transport, and trade. By linking ownership and health data to verified regulatory records, authorities expect the system to reduce disputes, prevent fraud, and support more organized market activity.

The launch comes amid the kingdom’s broader push to modernize agricultural and livestock sectors while preserving traditional practices. According to a census released in June 2025, Saudi Arabia is home to more than 2.2 million camels, placing it among the world’s leading camel-owning countries. Unofficial estimates suggest there are around 80,000 camel owners nationwide.

Government officials describe the camel passport as a “qualitative step” that strengthens confidence in the sector and supports Saudi Arabia’s position in regional and global markets, where camel trade, breeding, and heritage activities continue to play an important role.