Abu Al-Waul: Saudi Arabia's Longest Cave Beckons Adventure Seekers

Abu Al-Waul, the Kingdom's longest cave beckons adventure seekers. (SPA)
Abu Al-Waul, the Kingdom's longest cave beckons adventure seekers. (SPA)
TT

Abu Al-Waul: Saudi Arabia's Longest Cave Beckons Adventure Seekers

Abu Al-Waul, the Kingdom's longest cave beckons adventure seekers. (SPA)
Abu Al-Waul, the Kingdom's longest cave beckons adventure seekers. (SPA)

Situated in the Harrat Khaybar volcanic field, in the Khaybar Governorate of the Madinah region, Abu Al-Waul Cave has become a popular destination for caving enthusiasts, researchers, and adventurers. It is the longest basalt cave in Saudi Arabia, stretching some 5 kilometers, the Saudi Press Agency said.
The Saudi Geological Survey (SGS) is working on projects to improve caves and other tourist sites, focusing on their geological and tourism potential. Cave tourism is attracting visitors to the Kingdom.
An SPA reporter's tour with cave exploration enthusiast Hassan Al-Rashidi revealed that Harrat Khaybar is home to many caves formed thousands of years ago. Recently uncovered by the SGS, Abu Al-Waul Cave derives its name from the abundance of ibex skeletons discovered within (waul being the Arabic plural for ibex).
Al-Rashidi highlighted the tourism potential of Harrat Khaybar, due to its many caves and volcanoes, which offer the opportunity to study their geological formations and rock structure.
Al-Rashidi documents his explorations to provide valuable information for researchers, enthusiasts, and adventurers. This includes detailing cave locations, types, access routes, preservation methods, and organizing trips to these sites.



UAE Culture Ministry, Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority Discuss Boosting Cooperation

MoC has held a high-level meeting with the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority to explore cooperation opportunities between both parties. WAM
MoC has held a high-level meeting with the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority to explore cooperation opportunities between both parties. WAM
TT

UAE Culture Ministry, Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority Discuss Boosting Cooperation

MoC has held a high-level meeting with the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority to explore cooperation opportunities between both parties. WAM
MoC has held a high-level meeting with the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority to explore cooperation opportunities between both parties. WAM

The UAE Ministry of Culture (MoC) has held a high-level meeting with the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority to explore cooperation opportunities between both parties to preserve local identity and heritage.

The meeting was attended by Mubarak Al Nakhi, Under-Secretary of the MoC, Abdullah Mubarak Al Muhairi, Acting Director-General of Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, and other senior officials from both entities.

During the meeting, the attendees discussed various topics, such as enhancing heritage-related publications and monitoring them to ensure compliance with the highest quality standards. They also discussed strengthening cooperation between local sectors and its crucial role in achieving sustainable development.

The attendees also addressed other heritage-related topics, such as setting future strategies for preservation and documentation and boosting external participation to showcase the rich Emirati heritage regionally and internationally. Representatives from both entities presented key initiatives implemented in culture and tangible and intangible heritage enhancement. They also identified cooperation opportunities that contribute to achieving sustainable development goals through cultural and heritage projects and initiatives.

This meeting is a strategic step towards enhancing cooperation between the MoC and Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority to accomplish joint goals and preserve UAE cultural heritage. It supports the UAE’s efforts to ensure the sustainability of its heritage for future generations.