AlUla Launches Largest Campaign to Resettle Wild Animals in Region

More than 1,580 endangered animals will be released in AlUla as part of the Royal Commission for AlUla’s mission to resettle native species into their natural habitats - (Royal Commission for AlUla)
More than 1,580 endangered animals will be released in AlUla as part of the Royal Commission for AlUla’s mission to resettle native species into their natural habitats - (Royal Commission for AlUla)
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AlUla Launches Largest Campaign to Resettle Wild Animals in Region

More than 1,580 endangered animals will be released in AlUla as part of the Royal Commission for AlUla’s mission to resettle native species into their natural habitats - (Royal Commission for AlUla)
More than 1,580 endangered animals will be released in AlUla as part of the Royal Commission for AlUla’s mission to resettle native species into their natural habitats - (Royal Commission for AlUla)

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has launched the largest campaign to resettle more than 1,580 wild animals that will include antelopes, gazelles, Arabian oryx and mountain ibex.

The campaign is the largest of its kind for RCU, as it includes determining the readiness of the site, and monitoring the resettled animals, in addition to focusing on scientific studies during the preparations for the resettling campaign.

Monitoring of the newly released animals will be carried out with SMART software analysis tools, camera trapping and satellite tracking collars. It is the first time that the lightweight, solar-powered collars will be used for ungulate species in the region.

The commission's campaign comes in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030,as well as the Saudi Green Initiative and the Green Middle East Initiative, with the aim of transforming AlUla into the largest living museum in the world while preserving its environmental and historical characteristics.



Saudi Arabia’s Thuwal: Private Island Resort in the Red Sea

Thuwal resort offers absolute privacy and simple luxury (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Thuwal resort offers absolute privacy and simple luxury (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Saudi Arabia’s Thuwal: Private Island Resort in the Red Sea

Thuwal resort offers absolute privacy and simple luxury (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Thuwal resort offers absolute privacy and simple luxury (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Thuwal Private Resort has officially opened as the first island of its kind in Saudi Arabia, located off the coast of Jeddah. The resort offers a unique experience of complete privacy and luxury, perfect for escaping the everyday hustle.

The resort is set on a beautiful island in the Red Sea, accessible by a 40-minute private yacht ride from the KAUST marina, north of Jeddah.

The resort allows guests to book the entire island for total privacy and comfort, with only one group staying at a time. Whether for a peaceful family retreat, a luxurious celebration with friends, or an exclusive escape with loved ones, the resort offers a perfect setting. It accommodates up to 12 adults and 3 children.

The main villa includes three spacious bedrooms, a large living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a 395-square-meter garden with a private pool and sunbathing terrace.

The three beachfront suites offer more privacy, each with a bedroom, outdoor terrace, private pool, and beautiful decor that blends with the natural surroundings.

The resort’s dining experience is overseen by a team of top chefs who use fresh, local ingredients to craft menus that cater to all tastes and satisfy every culinary preference. The offerings include Mediterranean-inspired seafood dishes and healthy meal options.

Moreover, the resort offers a variety of activities for all ages and interests. Adventure seekers can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and diving to explore coral reefs and shipwrecks, with professional instructors and equipment for beginners.

For relaxation, the spa provides soothing massages and wellness treatments.

Guests can also enjoy beach soccer, volleyball, island walks, or unwind in the library, which has books and games.

The resort features an outdoor cinema where guests can watch movies under the stars, with snacks and refreshing drinks adding to the experience.

Additionally, the resort offers cultural programs inspired by Saudi heritage, including folk music, traditional performances, and crafts, enriching the overall stay.