UNESCO listing of Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve puts Saudi conservation efforts in the limelight

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This picture titled "Group of Arabian Oryx with sand dune background" was part of Saudi Arabia's application for the inclusion of "Uruq Bani Ma’arid" in the UNESCO World Heritage List. (Photo by Othman Llewellyn / National Center for Wildlife)
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Updated 30 September 2023
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UNESCO listing of Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve puts Saudi conservation efforts in the limelight

  • Decision seen as recognition of Kingdom’s commitment to protecting and maintaining natural ecosystems and cultural heritage
  • Inscription of the reserve on UNESCO World Heritage List comes more than 30 years after it was designated a protected zone

LONDON: Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve has become the first natural site in Saudi Arabia to be added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List, joining the six man-made heritage locations in the Kingdom that were previously inscribed.

In the words of Prince Badr bin Abdullah, the Saudi minister of culture, when he announced the organization’s on September 20, the addition of the site “contributes to highlighting the importance of natural heritage on a global scale and reflects the outstanding value of the reserve.”

But the Kingdom’s dedication to the protection of its natural environment is far from a new phenomenon. The recognition by UNESCO reflects a long-running commitment by Saudi Arabia to the preservation of a diverse and internationally important natural environment that stretches back almost four decades.




Spanning 12,765 square kilometers, Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve lies on the western edge of the Empty Quarter, the world’s largest continuous sand sea. The desert’s diverse topography creates a variety of wildlife habitats. (Supplied)

The listing of the Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve, on the edge of Rub Al-Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, comes more than 30 years after the area was designated a protected zone.

But it was not the first such site afforded protected status. That honor went to Harrat Al-Harrah, a 13,775 square kilometer volcanic plateau in the north of the country, which was designated as a reserve in 1986 — 37 years ago.

Uruq Bani Ma’arid joined the list in 1992 and since then the flora and fauna of the reserve have been sensitively reintroduced and protected, a commitment that has transformed what was once a near-barren landscape of more than 12,500 square kilometers into a haven of diversity.




Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve contains habitats vital to the survival of many species. (Supplied)

In 1994, by which time 10 areas had been accorded protected status, a paper published in GeoJournal recorded the sorry state of Uruq Bani Ma’arid, an area that had once been rich in wildlife.

It was, for example, here that the Arabian oryx, by that time extinct in the wild, had last been sighted. In fact, as the paper — titled “Protected Areas in Saudi Arabia: Sustainable Use of Natural Resources” — noted, “Uruq Bani Ma’arid used to have many animal species that are now extinct.”

FASTFACTS

Uruq Bani Ma’arid has taken its place among the six other UNESCO World Heritage sites in Saudi Arabia.

Listing of Uruq Bani Ma’arid comes more than 30 years after the area was designated a protected zone.

Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve ecosystem embodies outstanding universal value and forms a unique and diverse landscape.

The problem, which had prompted the official intervention in the area in 1992, was that the age-old balance of sustainable use of natural resources had been upset by the rapid growth of the human population in the Kingdom and the incursion of roads and other infrastructure into once-remote areas, upsetting entire ecosystems in the process.




This picture titled "Hail covering sand dunes" was part of the Kingdom's application for the inclusion of "Uruq Bani Ma’arid" in the UNESCO World Heritage List. (Photo by Hamad Al Qahtani / National Center for Wildlife)

“People still remember vividly the diversity of fauna that the area had, and the tales of their hunting are still related,” Abdullah Alwelaie, of the Imam Mohammed bin Saud Islamic University’s Department of Geography in Riyadh, wrote in the 1994 GeoJournal paper.

“They are now all extinct in the wild in this area,” wrote Alwelaie, who offered some consolation when he noted that some wild species continued to hold out, including the Arabian wolf, sand fox, wild cat, sand cat, and honey badger.




Titled "Inter-dunal corridor during spring," this picture was part of the Kingdom's application for the inclusion of "Uruq Bani Ma’arid" in the UNESCO World Heritage List. (Photo by Muhammad Al Yousifi)

The slopes of Jabal Tuwayq in the west of the reserve were once home to ibex, while the wadis, desert plains and sand dunes had teemed with Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, and Arabian ostrich.

Almost 30 years later, many of these species and more besides are once again thriving in the reserve — and, indeed, across the other 13 reserves in Saudi Arabia. These 14 special landscapes account for about five percent of the Kingdom’s territory — a total area of more than 82,000 square kilometers.




Titled "Edge of Tuwayq Escarpment," this picture was part of the Kingdom's application for the inclusion of "Uruq Bani Ma’arid" in the UNESCO World Heritage List. (Photo by Tarek Abulhawa / National Center for Wildlife)

This, however, is just a start. Under the wide-ranging Saudi Green Initiative, a “whole-of-society initiative” launched in 2021 “to combat climate change, improve quality of life and protect the planet for future generations” as part of the Kingdom’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, Saudi Arabia has pledged to protect 30 percent of its terrestrial and marine landscape by 2030. The initiative is also committed to planting 10 billion trees across the country in the coming decades.

In the meantime, Uruq Bani Ma’arid has taken its place among the six other UNESCO World Heritage sites in Saudi Arabia. These include the Hegra Archaeological Site in AlUla (which was the first to be inscribed, in 2008), At-Turaif District in Diriyah (added to the list in 2010), Historic Jeddah, Gateway to Makkah (2014), Rock Art in the Hail Region (2015), Al-Ahsa Oasis — An Evolving Cultural Landscape (2018), and Ḥima Cultural Area (2021).




Al-Ahsa Oasis in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. (Ministry of Culture photo)

In January this year, Saudi Arabia was elected chair of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee by a unanimous vote among the 20 other member states that are party to the 1972 World Heritage Convention.

This month, Riyadh hosted the 45th annual session of the committee. It was, as the Kingdom’s permanent delegation to UNESCO tweeted, “a new chapter in our evolving history.”

The extent to which Saudi Arabia is focused on its natural and cultural heritage, which is apparent in its careful development of historic sites as AlUla and Diriyah as global tourism destinations, is also reflected in the list of 14 sites that have been registered on UNESCO’s “Tentative List” of locations that states intend to consider for nomination to the main list.




Saudi Arabia’s Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve was officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List during the extended 45th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Riyadh between Sept. 10-25. (Supplied)

Six of these sites were added to the Tentative List this year alone. They include a collection of prehistoric stone structures discovered at 10 locations across the Kingdom; ancient dams that tell the history of water management; a collection of five sites that together are representative of Saudi Arabia’s oil-industrial heritage, including the famous “Well Number 7” in Dammam, and Tapline, Aramco’s 1,648-kilometer Trans Arab Pipeline that between 1950 and 1976 carried oil from Qaisumah on the Gulf coast to the Mediterranean port of Sidon in Lebanon.

Two of the recently submitted sites, however, could join the Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve as natural sites on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

One is the “Bioclimatic Refugia of Western Arabia,” a series of mountain crests, woodlands and wetlands that harbor the surviving relics of ancient plant and animal species.

The other is “the rural cultural landscapes of the Sarawat Mountains,” a collection of seven landscapes along the southernmost stretch of the Hijaz Mountains, prized for their “unique geographic characteristics and dramatic mountain setting (which) offered a secure and defensible environment for human settlement, protected agriculture, and fortified trade halts.”




Thi Ain Heritage Village in Saudi Arabia’s southwestern Al-Baha province dates back hundreds of years. (Susan Baaghil/Saudi Tourism/File)

These projects feed directly into the ambitious aims of the SGI, the third annual forum of which will take place this year during the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference, COP28, at Expo City in Dubai on Dec. 4.

As Yasir Al-Rumayyan, governor of the Public Investment Fund and chairman of Saudi Aramco, said last year during the second SGI forum, held during COP27 in the Egyptian city of Sharm El-Sheikh, the initiative represents “a turning point in green efforts” that has “already changed both the conversation and the facts, and promises a green future anchored around Saudi Arabia’s ambition to reach net-zero emissions by 2060, turning national ambitions into real actions that positively impact the world.”

On the ground in Saudi Arabia, that ambition is symbolized by the rapidly growing and spectacular list of protected environments, including its newly internationally recognized flagship, the Uruq Bani Ma’arid Reserve.

 

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The five historic sites inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List tell a story of universal importance

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Female tour guides prove key to improving the Makkah pilgrimage experience

Updated 01 April 2025
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Female tour guides prove key to improving the Makkah pilgrimage experience

  • Guides fluent in multiple languages and well-versed in cultural and religious history
  • “Through storytelling, we reveal the meaning behind each site, trace the city’s historical evolution, and bring to life the journeys of the Prophet”

MAKKAH: Amid a record-breaking influx of pilgrims this year, female tour guides in Makkah have become an integral part of the experience.

Their fluency in multiple languages and deep knowledge of the Holy City’s history and landmarks have made them invaluable to both pilgrims and visitors.

They share information, help visitors navigate sacred sites and teach people about culture and religion — all of which help make the experience even more memorable.

One of the women, Itimad Ghazzawi, said: “Our mission is to enrich (pilgrims’) journey — not just by guiding them through rituals, but by offering a deeper connection to the Islamic heritage and culture embedded in this sacred city.”

She explained that tour guides speak multiple languages, as Makkah brings together people from all around the world.

“We strive to master these languages to become a bridge between the pilgrim and this sacred city,” she said. “Through storytelling, we reveal the meaning behind each site, trace the city’s historical evolution and bring to life the journeys of the Prophet, his noble companions, and the defining moments that shaped Islamic history.

“We also offer reassurance to pilgrims, many of whom are visiting for the first time and may feel uncertain about where to begin or how to perform the rituals properly. We help them navigate the holy sites, from Makkah’s historic mountains and museums to its valleys, ravines, Jabal al-Nour and the Cave of Hira, making every step smoother and more meaningful.”

She added: “Some arrive feeling anxious about the crowds or overwhelmed by language barriers, and we’re there to ease those worries, instill confidence, and ensure their pilgrimage is both smooth and spiritually fulfilling.”

Fellow guide Rania Chaudhry emphasized that enriching the pilgrim experience required extensive knowledge.

“We go far beyond surface-level facts,” she told Arab News. “We delve into historical texts, study key Islamic events and consult trusted sources, research extensively, and listen to historical narratives to ensure everything we share is both accurate and meaningful.

“At the same time, we embrace modern technology, using apps and interactive platforms to connect with visitors and deliver guidance in ways that are engaging, accessible, and relevant.”

She added being a tour guide was “a mission, one that fills us with pride. It is an opportunity to serve the guests of God and reflect an honorable image of Makkah, as well as of Saudi women, who have become an integral part of this meaningful field.

“There’s a profound sense of fulfillment in a pilgrim’s eyes filled with gratitude, knowing they felt more at ease, more connected and better informed during their visit to this sacred place.”

While at times the guides face challenges — such as navigating heavy traffic or responding to complex and unexpected questions — Chaudry said these only strengthened their commitment.

“Such experiences push us to sharpen our skills,” she said.

“We are honored to be part of each pilgrim’s journey, helping them see Makkah with eyes of understanding and hearts full of reverence. We love what we do, because it allows us to serve the guests of God and enrich their spiritual journey with knowledge, passion and purpose.”


Saudi drug busts lead to multiple arrests

Updated 01 April 2025
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Saudi drug busts lead to multiple arrests

  • General Directorate of Narcotics Control arrested three citizens and a Yemeni resident in Najran for selling tablets regulated by medical circulation laws
  • Border Guard patrols in Al-Aridah, Jazan, thwarted the smuggling of 31 kg of hashish and arrested six Yemenis for smuggling 83 kg of qat

RIYADH: Saudi authorities carried out multiple drug-related arrests across the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday. 

The General Directorate of Narcotics Control arrested three citizens and a Yemeni resident in Najran for selling tablets regulated by medical circulation laws.

In another operation, a Yemeni and a citizen were arrested with 56,119 tablets.

Authorities in Al-Dayer, Jazan, foiled an attempt to smuggle 33,450 tablets.

Border Guard patrols in Al-Aridah, Jazan, thwarted the smuggling of 31 kg of hashish and arrested six Yemenis for smuggling 83 kg of qat.

Two Pakistanis were arrested in Jeddah with 4 kg of methamphetamine, also known as shabu.

Border Guard patrols in Al-Raboah, Asir, arrested eight Yemenis and Ethiopians for smuggling 144 kg of qat.

Authorities also arrested four citizens in the Eastern Province for selling hashish and amphetamines.

Preliminary legal procedures were completed, and all seized items were transferred to the relevant bodies.

Authorities have urged the public to report drug smuggling or selling by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions.

Reports can also be submitted, in strict confidence, to the General Directorate of Narcotics Control at 995 or via email at 995@gdnc.gov.sa


Regions celebrate Eid with cultural diversity and community engagement

Updated 01 April 2025
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Regions celebrate Eid with cultural diversity and community engagement

  • Cities and towns across the Kingdom are hosting Eid Al-Fitr events that blend traditional cultural performances with modern entertainment

RIYADH: Municipalities across Saudi Arabia are hosting Eid Al-Fitr events that blend traditional cultural performances with modern entertainment.

In Hail, the celebrations have attracted visitors of all ages with activities including theatrical performances, the Ardah dance — inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2015 — and popular folklore shows.

Baha Municipality has distributed 3,000 gifts as part of its celebrations and organized 55 community events, including traditional performances, fireworks, family festivals and children’s theater.

Asir Municipality prepared over 470 parks and squares in preparation for Eid, hosting diverse cultural and recreational events, while in Abha, Eid Al-Basta festivities at the Heritage Village have featured traditional performances, boosting tourism and supporting local businesses.

Qassim’s celebrations have included folk arts, with audiences enjoying traditional chants and performances, and Al-Aan Palace in Najran has attracted visitors with its stunning views and unique architecture, offering insights into the region’s history and culture.

The Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites organized programs at locations including the Hira Cultural District and Makkah Mall, drawing thousands of families.

Taif’s parks have also hosted a range of events, attracting over 200,000 attendees with cultural performances and spectacular fireworks.

Meanwhile, the Diriyah Gate Development Authority’s Eid celebrations included children’s games, calligraphy and more, bringing cheer to the historic district of At-Turaif and Bujairi Terrace.


Saudi publishers connect globally at Bologna fair

Saudi Arabia inaugurated its pavilion at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair at the BolognaFiere Exhibition Center in Bologna.
Updated 01 April 2025
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Saudi publishers connect globally at Bologna fair

  • CEO of the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission said that the Kingdom’s involvement aims to showcase a range of programs

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia inaugurated its pavilion at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, held from March 31 to April 3 at the BolognaFiere Exhibition Center in Bologna, Italy.

Abdullatif Al-Wasel, CEO of the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, said that the Kingdom’s involvement aims to showcase a range of programs, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

He added that these efforts focus on developing the publishing industry, fostering cultural engagement, supporting Saudi publishers and literary agents globally, and highlighting the Kingdom’s rich intellectual heritage and literary output.

Al-Wasel added that the fair provides a valuable platform for Saudi publishers to connect and exchange knowledge with international counterparts.

The Kingdom’s pavilion includes participation from cultural entities such as the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, King Abdulaziz Public Library, King Fahd National Library and the Publishing Association.

The King Salman academy is showcasing its efforts to enhance the global presence of the Arabic language and support Arabic content in cultural and academic fields, the SPA reported.

The academy is presenting its latest publications, highlighting its contributions to linguistic and knowledge-based content development, as well as its projects in language planning, policy, computational linguistics, education and cultural initiatives.


KSrelief supports thousands in Sudan, Somalia, Lebanon

Updated 01 April 2025
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KSrelief supports thousands in Sudan, Somalia, Lebanon

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief has delivered thousands of food, clothing and shelter packages to some of the world’s most vulnerable people, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

In Sudan, KSrelief distributed 1,900 food baskets to vulnerable and displaced families in Ad-Damir, a city in River Nile State, benefiting 11,400 people.

In Somalia, the aid agency provided 500 clothing bags, 100 shelter kits and 70 tents in Hargeisa, aiding 4,020 people.

In Lebanon, KSrelief distributed 1,048 food baskets in Beirut and Arsal, assisting 5,240 individuals.

The efforts are part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing humanitarian initiatives to support affected communities worldwide.

Since its launch in May 2015, KSrelief has implemented 3,389 projects worth nearly $7.9 billion in 106 countries, working with 309 local, regional, and international partners.