Doha, September 09 (QNA) - The electronic system for falcon services and CITES permit system at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change recorded 24,734 applications from its launch in 2024 through Sep. 6, while around 67 percent of completed applications are processed on the same day they are submitted, provided that applicants have submitted all required documents.

The system has witnessed steady growth in demand, recording 6,115 applications in 2024 before rising to 12,475 applications in 2025, representing growth of around 104 percent. Meanwhile, 6,144 applications were recorded between January and Sep. 6 of this year.

The CITES import permit topped the list of most requested services since the system was launched, with a total of 5,747 applications, followed by the Falcon passport renewal service with 4,063 applications and the issuance of a passport for a CITES-Bred Falcon service with 3,512 applications. Applications for transfer of Falcon ownership totaled 2,347.

Commenting on these indicators, Assistant Undersecretary for Protection and Natural Reserves Affairs at the Ministry Dr. Ibrahim Abdul Latif Al Muslimani affirmed that the record growth in the number of applications, which rose by 104 percent last year, reflected the qualitative development of services provided to falconers and other beneficiaries, as well as the system's ability to accommodate increased demand while maintaining rapid processing and accurate implementation of requirements. He called on falconers to ensure that all required documents are completed before submitting their applications to guarantee same-day processing and avoid any delays.

He noted that the digital development of services was consistent with the Ministry's responsibility to monitor and regulate trade in species listed under the international CITES convention, in compliance with national and international requirements and in support of efforts to conserve biodiversity and wildlife.

For his part, Director of the Wildlife Development Department Khalid Juma Bu Jumhour Al Mohannadi highlighted the Ministry's continued efforts to review service procedures and streamline their electronic processing. He called on beneficiaries to ensure that all permits and documents are completed before beginning travel, import or export procedures, in order to facilitate the movement of falcons in accordance with approved regulations.

The opening of the Wildlife Development Department's Souq Waqif Services Office has helped facilitate customers' access to services, identify their feedback and needs, and provide beneficiaries with on-site support and training, particularly elderly people, assisting them in completing applications electronically or processing applications on their behalf when necessary.

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) aims to regulate international trade in endangered species to ensure that such trade does not threaten their survival in the wild. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change is responsible for monitoring trade in listed wildlife species and issuing permits for their import, export, and transit in accordance with applicable regulations. (QNA)