Nature and progress thrive together in our geoparks

Arab News

16-05-2025

https://arab.news/bpncd
With two major projects — the North Riyadh and the Salma geoparks — Saudi Arabia is embarking on a transformative journey. These projects, woven into Vision 2030, are more than geological marvels; they are symbols of a Kingdom embracing its natural legacy while creating a sustainable future.
As a country, we value the timeless beauty of our land and the opportunities these parks create by combining cultural celebration with environmental preservation.
Imagine standing in a living museum, where each rock and ridge tells the story of Earth's past. Recently designated a UNESCO Global Geopark, the North Riyadh Geopark is a geological treasure — one that inspires the soul and dazzles the eye.
Managed by the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification, this vast refuge boasts 20 unique geological sites, each a chapter in the story of our planet's evolution, its diversity, and the legacy of the Arabian Peninsula.
Beyond its breathtaking scenery, the park offers significant potential. Promoting environmental sustainability, water management, and agriculture — pillars that will help lead Saudi Arabia into a better future — it aligns seamlessly with Vision 2030.
Here, sustainable tourism thrives, drawing visitors from around the world to witness nature's artistry and support the Kingdom's economic diversification. The center's careful oversight ensures that every step forward protects the land we treasure, preventing desertification and encouraging vegetation cover for future generations.
Then there is Thadiq Village, a gem nestled within the heart of the park. Established in 1668 and known as the 'Mother of Guns,' Thadiq reflects our proud past and features ancient sites that honor the bravery of King Abdulaziz in founding our Kingdom.
As a country, we value the timeless beauty of our land and the opportunities these parks create by combining cultural celebration with environmental preservation.
Abdulelah Al-Nahari
This blend of natural beauty and cultural richness offers visitors a rare opportunity to connect with both the land and our heritage, a gift that elevates Saudi Arabia's global reputation.
Look across to the Salma Geopark and you will find an outdoor paradise for those who seek it. Both dreamers and adventurers are drawn to this rugged haven, with its volcanic formations and hidden oases.
Whether scaling rocky peaks, hiking sunlit trails, or gazing at a starlit sky, Salma Geopark provides moments that stir the spirit. It is a playground for diverse interests — hiking, rock climbing, birdwatching — where each experience offers an escape into nature's embrace.
For Saudis, picnicking and camping are woven into our identity, not just pastimes. Salma Geopark reimagines these traditions in a modern way. Picture well-equipped campsites where families gather around glowing fires to share stories, blending comfort with the wild.
The park also teaches and promotes sustainable practices that ensure our cherished customs endure. Salma reshapes our outdoor habits by fostering a deeper respect for the land, turning simple outings into meaningful experiences rooted in responsibility.
But Salma is more than a retreat — it is a celebration of community. Local artists bring the park to life with handcrafted goods and traditional cuisine that spotlight Saudi culture. This vibrant exchange not only supports local businesses but also deepens our pride in our heritage — a living tribute to who we are.
Under the guidance of the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification — a force dedicated to preserving our natural wealth — both parks thrive through habitat restoration, water conservation, and tree planting. These efforts combat desertification and promote biodiversity, crucial steps toward a vibrant, sustainable Saudi Arabia.
These are bold commitments to preserving beauty, seizing opportunity, and building a future where progress and nature walk hand in hand. These places tell our story and shape our destiny — and as we invite the world to witness this transformation, we stand prouder than ever.
• Abdulelah Al-Nahari is a business and communications partner at a marketing solutions firm, leading strategic growth initiatives aligned with Saudi Arabia's digital-first vision.