Saudi royal reserve to promote eco-tourism, cultural heritage at Abu Dhabi Expo

The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve Development Authority is set to participate in the 21st Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition from August 31 to September 8. The event provides a platform for the authority to promote eco-tourism and highlight the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's rich cultural heritage.

At the exhibition, the authority will showcase its achievements in restoring ecological balance and preserving biodiversity within the reserve. This includes the protection of wildlife and native plants and support for the local community. Visitors to the pavilion can engage with interactive displays that focus on traditional arts and crafts, offering a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage.

The pavilion will also feature leading tourism initiatives, such as the Northern Hunting Reserve, the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia. Additional activities include camping experiences and stargazing in the reserve's designated Dark Sky Area, providing visitors with unique opportunities to connect with nature.

Covering an expansive area of 91,500 square kilometres, the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve is the second-largest royal reserve in Saudi Arabia. It is home to over 138 wildlife species and more than 179 plant species, making it a hub of diverse ecology, unique landscapes and numerous heritage sites.

Over the past four years, the reserve has significantly protected endangered species, including the Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, houbara bustard and red-necked ostrich. These conservation efforts have led to substantial population increases for these species, along with a resurgence of reptiles and a thriving insect population.

The reserve’s participation in the Abu Dhabi exhibition underscores its ongoing commitment to conservation and eco-tourism, while also placing a spotlight on Saudi Arabia's natural and cultural treasures.