Al-Ahsa rains revive desert camping trips on the Al-Uqair road
Following the recent rains in the Eastern Province, Al-Ahsa Governorate witnessed a significant surge in tourism and social activity, as families and young people took advantage of the mild winter weather to venture out to the open desert areas. The desert along the Al-Uqair Road (also known as the Kilo 10 desert), located approximately 10 kilometers from the city of Al-Uyun, topped the list of preferred destinations, transforming into a natural haven that combines the beauty of the sand dunes with the clear skies after the rain.
Al-Ahsa: An oasis of palm trees and a deep well of history
These road trips in Al-Ahsa take on a special dimension due to the region's geographical and historical significance. Al-Ahsa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not only the world's largest palm oasis, but also encompasses a unique desert environment surrounding it. The Al-Uqair Road is a historically vital artery connecting the oasis to the historic port of Al-Uqair, the oldest Saudi port on the Arabian Gulf, lending a unique character to excursions in these areas, blending the enjoyment of nature with an appreciation for history.
The rituals of "picnics" and the variety of activities
Enjoying the desert atmosphere, or what is locally known as "kashta," took many forms, ranging from setting up temporary tents to enjoying the open ground. Cameras captured picnickers engaging in a variety of activities that reflect the vibrancy of the local community, from team sports like football and volleyball to adventure sports such as horseback riding and motorcycling, which find the sandy terrain an ideal environment. Families also made sure to revive authentic Saudi traditions by preparing Arabic coffee and tea over a wood fire and cooking lunch and dinner outdoors, further enhancing the desert tourism experience.
Social and psychological dimensions
Speaking about the social impact, Dr. Abdullah Al-Hussein, an expert in early childhood education, emphasized the profound positive effects of these outings. They provide a vital outlet to break the daily routine and offer an opportunity to strengthen family and social bonds away from the hustle and bustle of cities and electronic devices. He noted that playing in the sand allows children to release their energy in a healthy way, and these gatherings have reconnected old friends and colleagues.
Environmental awareness and social responsibility
With the increasing popularity of sites like Al-Asfar Lake and the Ring Road, urgent calls for environmental preservation have emerged. Several visitors, including Najib Al-Dawla and Nayef Al-Harbi, emphasized that the sustainability of these natural sites is a shared responsibility. They stressed the importance of adhering to the principle of "leave the place better than you found it," and refraining from leaving behind plastic waste or food scraps, to ensure these destinations remain clean and healthy for future generations and visitors, in line with the Kingdom's quality of life goals.
