History for Exploring
The unique safari of the Sharaan Nature Reserve sits on a foundation of 3,000 years of history. This is most evident in the historical engravings from ancient civilizations that can be found in the mountains, featuring “hunters holding spears on horses and camels — which bore religious significance — as well as petroglyphs of old Arabic writings, such as Nabataean”. Covering an area of 1,500 sq. km. the reserve was launched under the Vision of Al Ula by the city’s Royal Commission as part of their efforts to conserve the region’s natural and cultural heritage. Tours and experts are on hand to take visitors through the storied history of this cultivated land and how it has evolved in different ways in centuries past. It will provide a unique classroom from which children, students, tourists and residents can learn about this verdant area of north-western Saudi Arabia and its wonderful illuminations.
Animal Sanctuary
The Sharaan Nature Reserve is also centred around its priority to protect its indigenous wildlife and animal population. To that end it operates an animal breeding programme that includes a variety of species such red-necked ostriches, Idmi gazelles, Nubian ibexes, large-eared red foxes, the Arabian leopard and the endangered Arabian wolves. Its wildlife preservation efforts are also served by “The Global Fund for the Arabian Leopard” established by the Royal Commission to ensure that the reserve was sufficiently equipped and prepared enough to safely host and protect the endangered leopard from extinction. It is hoped that through the work of the reserve, the leopard population can be sustained and even grown. The oasis-like habitat of the Sharaan Nature Reserve is also being constantly maintained with a project to develop vegetation and rehabilitate Al Ula’s natural eco-system. Most commonly one can see acacia trees, native to the land, being planted as sustenance and shelter for the animals.
Much like other projects in Saudi Arabia that look to its future development, particularly in the fields of sustainability and energy, the Sharaan Nature Reserve is more than just a place for guests to explore the wonders of nature. It has been designed to fuel both the natural and man-made worlds in which it exists, encompassing a series of elements that will be a boon to the local economy in terms of jobs and investment potential, such as exclusive hospitality resorts and retail outlets.
If you would like to find out more about the Sharaan Nature Reserve, KSA mega projects, luxury property in Saudi Arabia or other real estate investment opportunities, get in touch with one of our consultants at Saudi Arabia Sotheby’s International Realty today.