Sidr trees in Wadi Al-Hilali: an environmental icon in Arar

The Northern Borders region of Saudi Arabia is gaining increasing environmental importance, particularly with the discovery and highlighting of pristine natural sites that harbor unique plant diversity. In this context, the jujube trees in Wadi Al-Hilali , located east of Arar, stand out as one of the most important natural landmarks, embodying the land's ancient heritage and adaptability. These trees are among the oldest and rarest wild trees in the region, with field evidence confirming that they represent the oldest plant heritage in the area surrounding the city.

Resilience in the face of harsh nature

The Wadi Al-Hilali area is distinguished by its collection of wild jujube trees, whose roots have sunk deep into the earth for decades. These trees stand as a living example of resilience in the face of harsh environmental challenges, from prolonged droughts and constant climate fluctuations to resisting overgrazing that threatened the vegetation in the past. This scene today reflects the power of nature and its remarkable ability to adapt and thrive despite the scarcity of water resources in the desert environment.

The Sidr tree: cultural symbolism and environmental value

The importance of these trees extends far beyond their role as mere vegetation; it encompasses profound cultural and environmental dimensions. The jujube tree (Ziziphus spina-christi) holds a special place in Arab and Islamic heritage, renowned for its numerous benefits, whether from its fruit, leaves, or the honey extracted from its flowers. Environmentally, these long-lived trees play a pivotal role in maintaining ecological balance; they act as natural windbreaks, and their deep roots contribute to soil stabilization and prevent desertification. Furthermore, they provide a safe haven and a food source for many native and migratory wildlife and birds.

A destination for photography and ecotourism enthusiasts

Thanks to these towering trees, Wadi Al-Hilali has become a major destination for nature enthusiasts and environmental photographers. The aesthetically pleasing formations of the Sidr branches intertwined against the vast desert backdrop create natural works of art that attract photographers to document the beauty of Saudi Arabia's wildlife. These trees stand as living witnesses to the region's natural heritage and are an attraction that promotes the concepts of sustainable ecotourism.

Legal protection and community awareness

In the context of national efforts to protect the environment, Nasser Al-Majlad, head of the Aman Environmental Association, emphasized that the region is rich in diverse types of wild plants with varied uses that necessitate protection. Al-Majlad highlighted a crucial point regarding legislative developments in the Kingdom, explaining that the enactment of strict environmental regulations and laws by the relevant authorities, in line with the Saudi Green Initiative, has significantly contributed to reducing encroachments on vegetation cover. These measures have also helped raise awareness within the local community about the importance of preserving the environment and ensuring the sustainability of its natural resources for future generations.