Ecotourism in Saudi Arabia: 800 Thousand Tourists per Season
The fifth season of the "Al-Uroma" festival set a record for attendance — over 800,000 people explored the protected natural areas of Saudi Arabia over six months.
Record Attendance at the Eco-Festival
The ecological festival "Al-Uroma" concluded its fifth season with unprecedented figures. Over the course of six months, the Imam Abdulaziz bin Muhammad and King Khalid nature reserves welcomed more than 800,000 tourists. Since the project's launch five years ago, the total number of visits has reached nearly 2 million people. This growth reflects the increasing interest of tourists in eco-friendly recreation and sustainable tourism in the region.
Diverse Outdoor Activities
The festival offers 14 types of active recreation for all ages and fitness levels. Visitors can hike on mountain trails, explore desert landscapes by bike, on horseback, or on camels. Evening stargazing tours are particularly popular, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the nighttime nature of the protected areas. Each route is designed with ecosystem preservation and minimal environmental impact in mind.
Social and Economic Impact
In addition to attracting tourists, the project has a significant impact on the local economy. The festival has created 84 new jobs for local residents. This includes workers in hospitality, guides, conservation specialists, and other professionals. The development of ecotourism contributes to sustainable economic growth while preserving natural heritage.
Geographical Location and Development Plans
The festival takes place in picturesque nature reserves northeast of Riyadh, among mountains and protected natural areas. The unique location allows tourists to experience the authentic beauty of Saudi nature. Authorities have already announced the sixth season to be held in November, confirming the strategic importance of the project for the development of the country's tourism infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of activities are available at the "Al-Uroma" festival?
The festival features 14 types of active recreation: hiking, biking, horseback riding, camel trekking, stargazing, and nature trail tours. Each activity is designed for tourists of different fitness levels.
Where are the nature reserves of the festival located?
The Imam Abdulaziz bin Muhammad and King Khalid reserves are located northeast of Riyadh among mountains and protected natural areas. This allows tourists to explore the authentic Saudi nature.
What social impact has the festival had?
The project has created 84 jobs for local residents and attracted nearly 2 million visits over its five years of existence. This contributes to sustainable economic development in the region while preserving natural heritage.
