Saudi Arabia’s Sharaan Reserve becomes leading example of desert ecosystem management

 

Natural landscapes and biodiversity thriving in Saudi Arabia’s Sharaan Reserve  

Sharaan Nature Reserve in AlUla Governorate has become a leading example of desert ecosystem management, where natural landscapes and biodiversity thrive in harmony.

Spanning 1,543 square kilometers, the reserve features striking sandstone formations, a network of valleys, open sandy plains, and savannah-like vegetation. This diverse terrain supports multiple ecological zones, promoting vegetation stability and the restoration of natural habitats.

Conservation measures, including protective fencing and regulated grazing, have led to increased vegetation density and diversity, while wildlife populations have flourished. The reserve is now home to at least 47 mammal species, such as the Arabian wolf, Arabian oryx, the reintroduced Arabian gazelle, and the Nubian ibex. Reptiles number around 54 species, and Sharaan also provides habitat for more than 165 resident and migratory birds across the AlUla region.

 

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Recognized for its environmental stewardship, Sharaan is listed on the IUCN Green List, reflecting its adherence to global conservation and restoration standards. The reserve’s flora includes acacia trees, native desert shrubs, and drought-adapted grasses forming a savannah-like cover.

Sharaan also drives vegetation restoration through a native plant nursery and seed bank that produces over one million seedlings annually. Large-scale planting initiatives actively involve local communities, reinforcing the reserve’s role as a cornerstone of environmental sustainability in AlUla.

Source: SPA