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Wadi Al-Disah, a Captivating Illustration of Saudi Arabian Nature

A view of Wadi al-Disah in Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
A view of Wadi al-Disah in Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
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Wadi Al-Disah, a Captivating Illustration of Saudi Arabian Nature

A view of Wadi al-Disah in Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
A view of Wadi al-Disah in Saudi Arabia. (SPA)

Winter has its splendor in Saudi Arabia, especially in the north, and even in parts of the country that are characterized by moderate weather in the summer, like the south. Many tourists and visitors flock to the country at this time of every year.

This year is no different as the Kingdom succeeded in curbing the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Winter is around you” is a Saudi marketing slogan that highlights the importance of this season for the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia. Winter becomes more than just a season when one can enjoy a road trip in the desert, mountains, coasts and valleys.

Wadi Al-Disah, one of the most visited locations in Saudi Arabia this year, is a valley that is located in the heart of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Nature Reserve and extends into the city of Neom. Wadi Al-Disah boasts some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the Kingdom, with its crystal-clear streams, flowing springs, lush patches of green and towering palm trees. The valley’s Nabataean facade and rock-carved tombs only add to its beauty.

Asharq Al-Awsat met several tourists who came to enjoy Saudi Arabia’s natural beauty from across the globe. Through the lens of their cameras, they documented what they saw and posted the pictures on their social media.

Nataliya, a photographer from Ukraine, said that it was the first time that she visited the valley and that she and her husband couldn’t be more impressed with what they had seen. She added: “This valley is definitely the most beautiful place we have visited in our trip.”

A Brazilian tourist said that she decided to visit Wadi Al-Disah after she saw photos of the valley on Instagram. “I loved it ... Wadi Al-Disah is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen,” she said, adding that she was captivated by its mesmerizing nature and unique landscapes.

Saudi photographer Younis Al-Dohaiman also said that he first discovered the valley while scrolling through Instagram photos of travelers who had visited it during winter.

Tourists can visit Wadi Al-Disah in winter or summer. Temperatures in the area range from 12 degrees Celsius in winter to 31 degrees during the summer, while it rains for eight months a year on average.

The Saudi Public Investment Fund intends to invest in new development projects in Wadi Al-Disah that aim to preserve the environment and wildlife of the valley, while hoping to transform it into a major touristic attraction.

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Saudi Arabia Joins Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

Wetlands host 40 percent of the world’s species and plant life and store 30 percent of global carbon. (SPA)
Wetlands host 40 percent of the world’s species and plant life and store 30 percent of global carbon. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia Joins Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

Wetlands host 40 percent of the world’s species and plant life and store 30 percent of global carbon. (SPA)
Wetlands host 40 percent of the world’s species and plant life and store 30 percent of global carbon. (SPA)

Saudi Arabia, represented by the National Center for Wildlife (NCW), has officially joined the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar), underling its commitment to conserving environmental wealth and natural habitats that support rich biodiversity, promote environmental sustainability, and boost the national economy.

Saudi Arabia’s accession underscores its strong support for global efforts to preserve ecosystems in terrestrial and coastal environments, especially as challenges related to water, climate, and biodiversity become increasingly interconnected.

This step reflects the NCW’s broader efforts in leading a comprehensive development plan that supports research, monitoring, and conservation initiatives.

NCW CEO Dr. Mohammed Qurban stated: “The conservation of wetlands directly contributes to ecological balance, biodiversity protection, and sustainable development. The Kingdom’s accession to the Ramsar Convention is a strategic step that will reap both environmental and economic benefits.”

The center will implement the convention across Saudi territory in cooperation with relevant stakeholders to protect the Kingdom’s natural assets. It also contributes to national and international conservation efforts by developing and executing plans, policies, and legislation.

The NCW is working to identify suitable sites for inclusion in the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance and to ensure their effective management.

Wetlands are more than natural landscapes; they are vital ecosystems rich in biodiversity and natural resources. They host 40 percent of the world’s species and plant life, store 30 percent of global carbon, and serve as essential sources of water, food, medicine, and energy.

Wetlands also support agricultural production, regulate climate, provide ecotourism opportunities, and serve as critical stopovers for migratory waterbirds traveling between continents.