Latest news with #ImamAbdulaziz
Arab News
17-06-2025
- Arab News
Al-Urumah seasons draw more than 1m ecotourists
RIYADH: The Al-Urumah Season, held in the heart of the desert at the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed and King Khalid royal reserves, has become a premier ecotourism initiative, showcasing the Kingdom's stunning environment and the passion of its organizers. Over four seasons, Al-Urumah has grown into a vibrant destination, attracting more than 1 million ecotourists, according to a recent report from the Saudi Press Agency. The inaugural season had about 52,000 visitors, rising to 230,000 in the second season. With eight service providers, the third season exceeded 300,000 attendees. The fourth this year drew more than 400,000, reflecting effective strategic planning and infrastructure development involving the private sector and local communities. During the Al-Urumah Season, the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve Development Authority offers 13 activities across both reserves, including camping, hiking, camel riding, cycling, stargazing, and other outdoor pursuits. Additionally, 358 eco-units have been established for visitor accommodation, the SPA reported. The authority also organizes training workshops for service providers on ecotourism principles, responsible recreation, and wildlife interaction, emphasizing their vital role in delivering quality tourism experiences. The Al-Urumah Season has become an 'integrated model of sustainable ecotourism.' The authority has blended ecotourism, entertainment, and nature conservation, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's goals of economic diversification and community empowerment.
Arab News
24-04-2025
- General
- Arab News
Saudi rewilding program: Endangered wildlife released in Riyadh reserve, rare oryx born in Qassim park
RIYADH: Over 30 endangered animals had been released into Riyadh's King Khalid Royal Reserve as part of the Kingdom's rewilding program, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently. The release included 20 Arabian sand gazelles, five Arabian oryx, four wild hares, three steppe eagles, and a Black kite, according to the National Center for Wildlife (NCW). The NCW, in collaboration with the Imam Abdulaziz Bin Mohammed Royal Reserve Development Authority, maintains a breeding center in the reserve. In the central region of Qassim, the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) has reported the birth of an Arabian oryx in Qassim National Park. The birth of the wildlife was documented in all stages by a team from the NCVC, giving specialists to study the behavior of this endangered native species, a separate SPA report said. Saudi Arabia is a global leader in protecting the Arabian oryx. Since the 1970s, it has launched a national program with international organizations to save the species from extinction. Efforts have included establishing reserves like Mahazat as-Sayd and Uruq Bani Ma'arid, implementing captive breeding programs, and supporting gradual reintroduction, making Saudi Arabia a global model for wildlife protection.
