Nestled in the northeast of Riyadh, the Imam Abdulaziz Bin Mohammed Royal Reserve is a true gem, boasting a mix of nature’s finest features and a wide array of awe-inspiring terrains. Besides being a haven for unique geological formations, it also embraces rare plants and animals inscribed on the Red List of Threatened Species.
These species are given proper care within the reserve through strategic protection plans implemented by the Imam Abdulaziz Bin Mohammed Royal Reserve Development Authority. The goal is to address environmental challenges, preserve the ecosystem and natural resources, and increase vegetation growth rates without human intervention, making it a sustainable natural environment.
From sand dunes to lush plains, gardens, valleys, and streams, the geological wonders of the reserve have captured the interest of eco-enthusiasts and experts. It is a desert dreamland, with sand dunes showing off their brightest hues and catching visitors’ eyes. No wonder people flock here for a taste of that
desert magic, ready to dive into adventures and experience something different amid this vast marvel.
The Reserve Development Authority provides guided tours and excursions led by environmental tour guides, making it a hotspot for eco-enthusiasts interested in hiking, climbing, and other ecotourism activities. These experiences offer an opportunity to explore the enchanting natural landscapes and cultural heritage of the area.
Notably, the reserve’s unique geological wonders include the ‘duhool’ (plural of ‘dahl’) and valleys. A ‘dahl’ is a cavity that delves deep into the earth, ranging from small holes a few centimeters in diameter to wide openings several meters across.
‘Duhool’ are formed when rain falls and streams collect, causing erosive cavities in the ground due to the dissolution of limestone rocks. With repeated occurrences, these cavities grow deeper each time as rain flows into them, serving as crucial sources for replenishing groundwater reservoirs by retaining rainwater for extended perio
ds.
The reserve also stands out with its streams and valleys, where rainwater and floods flow from the Al-Urumah Plateau into the reserve’s valleys, such as Al-Thumama Valley and Ghilana Valley, leading to streams and parks like Rawdat Khuraim.
Rawdat Khuraim, one of the largest and most renowned areas in the reserve, spans around 52.3 square kilometers, distinguished by its diverse and dense plant cover that accounts for 77% of its area. Its natural beauty, lush green vegetation, and stunning wild landscapes make it a captivating tourist destination for visitors from both within and outside the kingdom during winter and spring, with abundant plants like acacia trees, sidr, and peganum harmala.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
