Ground tanks are expanding in the desert... The thrill of adventure awaits the "organization's compass"
The Kingdom's regions are witnessing a growing interest in off-road in the desert, amidst calls observed by Al-Youm newspaper for the establishment of organized tracks and the provision of comprehensive services to ensure the safety of participants and curb reckless driving by teenagers.
This hobby has become a major outlet, attracting diverse age groups to explore nature, escape the hustle and bustle of cities, and make the most of weekends and holidays.
A field survey conducted by Al-Youm revealed a noticeable boom in the rental sector, according to Abdulhamid Al-Haddad, a worker in the field, who emphasized their commitment to the quality and cleanliness of the vehicles.
Al-Haddad explained that prices vary according to the vehicle's class and size, with rentals for small ATVs ranging from 30 to 60 riyals for half an hour.
Infrastructure preparation
He pointed out that large, high-performance vehicles like the ATV and Raptor can fetch up to 250 riyals per hour, and around 150 riyals for half an hour.
The rental sector worker suggested the need to improve the infrastructure of these sites by creating dedicated lanes, providing food trucks, and ensuring public hygiene by offering restrooms for families.
In a related awareness campaign, hobbyist Bashir Al-Hamza emphasized the importance of parental supervision, warning against the exhibitionist tendencies of teenagers, which require close monitoring to guide them and ensure their safety.
Al Hamza pointed out that morning exercise positively contributes to adjusting children's sleep patterns before returning to school, while also providing a healthy outlet for physical energy.
For his part, Hussein bin Dakhil emphasized that enjoyment is intrinsically linked to awareness, stressing the importance of wearing protective helmets and avoiding risks in rugged terrain and dangerous locations.
Regulating the hobby
Reda Al Hamza agreed with what was mentioned, explaining that the hobby is not without the possibility of overturning and being exposed to injuries, which necessitates checking the mechanical readiness of the vehicle before starting.
Saif Al-Ghazawi warned of the dangers associated with high altitudes and speeds, calling for the regulation of the sport through the launch of "dedicated competitions" that allow for organized competition on safe tracks.
Abbas Safar, for his part, believes that the thrill of the sport should be channeled positively, advising families to cultivate a "love of adventure" in their children within a framework that protects lives.
Fadel Al-Safar pointed out that the sandy terrain mitigates the risks compared to public roads, expressing his hope for the swift establishment of commercially viable tracks that cater to both adults and children, creating a comprehensive sporting environment.
