Doha: In a move to further protect Qatar’s rangelands and biodiversity, Minister of Environment and Climate Change H E Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, has issued Ministerial Decision No. 15 of 2025 to extend and reinforce grazing regulations across the country.
The decision includes a two-year extension of the nationwide ban on camel grazing, effective from August 24, 2025. It also imposes a seasonal ban on grazing sheep and goats, which will be in effect from December 1 to March 15 each year, until March 2027.
Under the new regulations, camel owners are permitted to release their animals from barns or enclosures for health and strengthening purposes.
However, strict conditions apply - each camel must carry an official identification microchip, the release is limited to daytime hours only, and to a maximum of 10 camels at a time and camels must wear a face muzzle and are strictly prohibited from grazing or damaging trees.
Furthermore, the presence of the owner or a herder is mandatory during release. Released camels must remain at least 200 meters away from villages, cities, and main roads, and cannot roam more than one kilometer from the owner’s enclosure (Azba).
Grazing in protected natural reserves is strictly prohibited, with the only exception being the non-fenced area of Al Reem Reserve.
This decision reflects Qatar’s continued commitment to sustainable land management and environmental conservation, balancing livestock needs with ecosystem protection.
