In Saudi Arabia, Rüppell's fox has to compete with the red fox Vulpes vulpes which is well adapted to living in areas of the desert, particularly those colonized by man. Hence, Rüppell's fox may only be able to compete in the harshest desert areas. Poisoned baits are used indiscriminately to control predators in Saudi Arabia.
Vulpes rueppelli is considered as "Data Deficient" by the IUCN.