Camels now have official passports in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is taking camel care to a whole new level, elevating the regulation and management of its camel sector with the introduction of a pioneering “Camel Passport” initiative. Each camel will be issued an official identification document, including a microchip, photographs, vaccination records, and ownership information. The program aims to regulate the kingdom’s multi-million-strong camel population and enhance the sector’s credibility in both domestic and international markets.

Deputy Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Mansour bin Hilal Al-Mushaiti, inaugurated the project on Tuesday, calling it a “qualitative step” to organize the sector, enhance service efficiency, and protect ownership rights. The project is part of the National Livestock & Fisheries Development Program and ties into Saudi Vision 2030.

Each passport is packed with details: the camel’s name, date of birth, breed, color, sex, place of birth, microchip number, and even photos from both sides. Vaccination history is also carefully documented and certified by a veterinarian, helping track health and prevent disease outbreaks.

Saudi Arabia is home to over 2.2 million camels, making it one of the world’s top camel-owning nations. Camels aren’t just part of tradition, they’re status symbols, competition stars, and a big business. Beauty contests and breeding events attract huge sums, and the passport system will help regulate sales, transport, and ownership, while cracking down on illegal cosmetic enhancements.

MEWA says the project will also help improve genetic tracking, breed performance, and overall sustainability, making it easier to manage this iconic livestock across the kingdom.

From desert transport to global competitions, camels have been part of life on the Arabian Peninsula for thousands of years with carvings of camels and horses in Saudi Arabia dating back 7,000 years. Now, with passports in hand, these desert icons are stepping boldly into the digital age.

Who knew camels could be so official?