Organization of the National Falcon Center: Investment and Financial Sustainability
Introduction: Falconry is a renewed historical heritage
Falconry is considered one of the most important cultural and heritage pillars of the Arabian Peninsula, deeply intertwined with the lives and rich history of its ancestors, and has been inscribed on UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. In a move reflecting the wise leadership's commitment to preserving and developing this heritage in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, the Council of Ministers approved a new organizational structure for the National Falconry Center. This structure aims to enhance the status of falcons as one of the most prominent cultural and heritage symbols in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and to transform this sector from a mere traditional hobby into a comprehensive, institutionalized national industry that contributes to cultural and economic development.
The importance of the event: Institutional transformation towards sustainability
This strategic decision is part of a comprehensive government initiative focused on developing sectors related to national identity. The new regulations grant the National Falconry Center broad powers, including regulating the sector, developing its investments, and expanding its presence both locally and internationally. To ensure a smooth transition to this new financial model, the Cabinet approved the continuation of certain temporary financial arrangements, coordinated between the Ministry of Finance and the Non-Oil Revenue Center, until the national framework for fees and financial charges is fully implemented.
The decision also stipulated the establishment of joint mechanisms between the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Center and the Minister of Finance, enabling the Center to maximize the benefits from its investment revenues and the fees charged for its services. This approach reduces reliance on direct government support and achieves the desired financial sustainability, while the current Board of Directors of the Falcons Club continues to perform its duties temporarily to prevent any administrative vacuum.
Local and international impact: Saudi leadership in the world of falconry
At the local level, the organization enables the center to establish and manage specialized databases, and to manage lands, fields, and reserves, thereby improving the quality of infrastructure and services provided to falconers. This also includes organizing events, festivals, and auctions that have become a focal point for those interested, transforming the sector into a vital economic contributor.
At the regional and international levels, the organization has granted the center the authority to represent the Kingdom globally in relevant forums, conclude agreements and memoranda of understanding, and support scientific research in collaboration with universities and research institutions. This role reinforces the Kingdom's leadership in falcon conservation, particularly through programs that release endangered falcons into their natural habitats, reflecting Saudi Arabia's commitment to global environmental sustainability.
Flexible governance and modern management
To ensure the highest standards of efficiency, the regulations stipulate the formation of the center's board of directors, chaired by an individual appointed by order of the Prime Minister, and comprising representatives from the Ministries of Interior, Sports, Culture, and Environment, Water and Agriculture, in addition to the CEO and specialized experts. The board has been granted broad powers, including approving regulations, setting fees, approving investments, and establishing branches.
The organization also adopted a flexible governance model that allows for periodic meetings at least three times a year, remote voting, and the formation of specialized committees. To ensure transparency, the center's revenues are deposited into a unified treasury account at the Saudi Central Bank, while allowing for the opening of other accounts. The organization mandates that the center submit its final accounts and annual report to the Prime Minister within 90 days of the end of the fiscal year, thus reinforcing the principles of accountability and rigorous institutional oversight.
