Rainfall in the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Reserve: A revival of nature and wildlife
The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve experienced heavy rainfall on Tuesday, creating stunning natural landscapes and revitalizing the land in this vast area. The reserve is the second largest royal reserve in the Kingdom, spanning over 91,500 square kilometers and boasting a unique topography that includes sand dunes, plateaus, and valleys.
The flow of valleys and the revival of vegetation
The reserve's management explained that the rainfall directly contributed to filling the wadis and causing numerous streams and valleys to flow throughout the vast reserve. Field observations documented the water flow and rising water levels, a phenomenon that heralds an exceptional spring season. This will enhance the density of vegetation cover and stimulate the growth of annual and seasonal plants for which the region is known, such as lavender, daisies, and clover, restoring the area's natural beauty and charm.
Environmental and geographical importance of the reserve
The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Reserve holds significant strategic importance due to its geographical location connecting five administrative regions (Northern Borders, Hail, Qassim, Al-Jawf, and the Eastern Province). Historically, this area was known as the “Al-Taysiyah Reserve” before being designated a royal reserve by royal decree in 2018, with the aim of preserving the natural environment and reintroducing endangered wildlife.
Rainfall at this time is a vital element for supporting biodiversity, as it contributes to improving the natural habitats of the wildlife that the reserve harbors, such as the Arabian oryx, the sand gazelle, and the red-necked ostrich, which have been reintroduced into the wild as part of the Authority’s ambitious programs.
Supporting ecotourism and Vision 2030
This environmental revitalization aligns with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative, which aim to protect vegetation and combat desertification. Rainfall plays a pivotal role in transforming the reserve into a leading tourist destination for camping enthusiasts and nature lovers, especially with the availability of suitable infrastructure and seasonal events such as the "Winter Trail of Zubaydah," where the historic Kufan pilgrimage route passes through the reserve's lands, adding a cultural and historical dimension to the tourist experience in a unique atmosphere .
