Wildlife and Nature Reserves Worth Visiting in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has different types of geographical features. Such as tall mountains and coastlines with unique flora and fauna of the location. Besides, the country boasts several special zones, offering a safe place for the wildlife to grow. Saudi Arabia’s wildlife also includes several migratory species.
When you visit a nature reserve in Saudi Arabia, you can expect to see beautiful landscapes and watch animals in their natural habitat. So, let’s start the discussion without further delay.
Nature Reserves of Saudi Arabia
There are several wild reserves in Saudi Arabia, which include Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve, Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Royal Reserve, Farasan Islands Marine Sanctuary, and others.
Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve
In 2023, the site was inscribed as a Natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. The natural site has been in the process of being made since 1993 to conserve the local wildlife of the area. The natural site stretches across the edge of the Rub' al Khali. One of the important facts about this reserve is that it is a natural home to animals like Arabian oryx, sand gazelles, and even animals like Arabian Wolf, hyena, etc.
You can enjoy the natural Saudi Arabian wildlife area best if you take a guided desert trek in the area's national park.
Make sure to visit the park from 9 am to 6 pm on Monday and Friday.
Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve
The natural reserve is located in the Tabuk region, and it is considered to be one of the most iconic natural sites in Saudi Arabia. In 2018, it was established, and when you visit the park, you can see deserts, limestone peaks, and a plant ecosystem. Official records suggest that the area has approximately 791 terrestrial species.
The national reserve is considered to be the best place to house native species like Arabian oryx, Lappet-faced vulture, leopards, etc. With a guided wildlife safari, you can enjoy the beautiful place and explore different wild animals in the area. When you visit the area, make sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated all the time.
Farasan Islands Marine Sanctuary
The marine sanctuary of Saudi Arabia boasts one of the unique ecosystems and aquatic life. It is a large and protected natural sanctuary located on the southwestern coast of the Red Sea. If you plan to visit the area, you should know that the sanctuary is famous for vibrant coral reefs, clear turquoise water, and a diverse aquatic life.
If you are lucky, you can see animals like Arabian gazelle, Idmi gazelle, and white-tailed mongoose. It has also been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2021. It does not stop there; you can also see more than 45 bird species in the area.
Sharaan Nature Reserve
This natural reserve is part of the AlUla Project, and it is a renowned Nature Reserve in Saudi Arabia, located in the Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah Province of Al-Ula. The total area of the nature reserve covers 1500 sq. km. When you visit the area, you can view the beautiful red cliffs and hidden wadis.
The conservation efforts have been in focus for regenerating species like the Arabian ibex. If you stay in a luxury eco-lodge, you will have an immersive and low-impact stay.
Asir National Park
It is another expansive nature reserve situated in Saudi Arabia. The park is only a short drive away from the Abha city centre. The park is known for its variety of wildlife and biodiversity. It was established in 1981, and it was the first national park established in Saudi Arabia. According to the official record, it is home to more than 300 species of animals and birds.
When you visit the natural park, go on a trek on the hills and watch beautiful birds along with an extraordinary view from hills like Jabal Sawada. Besides, you can watch animals like the Hamadryas baboon, the Arabian leopard, Hyraxes, and Caracals.
Now, let’s take a look at the diverse Saudi Arabia’s wildlife.
Wildlife of Saudi Arabia
You may have already gotten a view of Saudi Arabia’s wildlife in the above discussion. The country is not only home to desert camels, rather it is also home to Arabian oryx, Arabian wolf, wild cats, etc.
Arabian Oryx
When you look at an Arabian oryx, you see an animal with long horns and a snowy white coat. The majestic-looking animal is an iconic symbol of Saudi Arabia. At one time in the past, it had been considered extinct from the face of the earth. But with careful effort to restore them, they are growing in numbers.
As per the latest data, there are approximately 1000 Arabian oryx in Saudi Arabia at present. You might be surprised to see that these amazing antelopes have adapted to the harsh desert area and managed to increase their numbers.
Arabian Wolf
The Arabian Wolf is a living testament that animals can even thrive in the harshest weather conditions. It has a similarity with the grey wolf. Unlike other members of the wolf family, the Arabian wolf lives in a small pack of 3 members and prefers to move quietly across the desert. You can spot them in the Arabian Peninsula.
Wild Cats
Saudi Arabia is home to the beautiful and majestic wild cats. One of the unique characteristics of the animal is - it has large ears and a compact physique.
The wild cat family also includes African Wildcats. They are considered to be the ancestors of domestic cats. If you think that the wild cats are the gem of the Saudi desert, then you might be wrong. These wild cats have become an iconic figure of the Saudi's cultural footprint.
How to Get to Saudi Arabia’s Natural Reserves?
You can arrive in Saudi Arabia by land, sea, or air. You can arrive in the country by using any of its international airports, including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Tabuk, and Abha. If you are coming from, for example, the USA, look for a direct flight to Riyadh.
On the other hand, Saudi Arabia shares land and sea borders with Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, and Oman. If you are planning to enter the country by land route, look for a bus ride. You can also hire boats from Egypt and Sudan. However, if you are a citizen of GCC member countries, you can also visit Saudi Arabia by car, driving yourself.
However, don’t forget to apply for a visa and get an approved copy to enter Saudi Arabia.
Visit Saudi Arabia to Explore Beautiful Landscape and Wildlife
Beyond the desert safari, Saudi Arabia has a lot of natural treasures to offer. With a diverse landscape and a variety of wildlife in the country, it can be the ideal place for a week-long trip.
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Check your eligibility for Online Saudi Visa and apply at least 3 days in advance of your flight to KSA. British citizens, Italian citizens, Greek citizens, Portuguese citizens and Turkish citizens can apply online for Online Saudi Visa.