Al-Zulfi, Saudi Arabia — Dr. Khalid bin Abdullah Al-Abdulqader, CEO of the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification, visited Rawdat Alsbalah to evaluate progress on one of Saudi Arabia’s leading ecological restoration sites. The meadow, situated in Al-Zulfi Governorate, spans approximately 20,000 hectares and serves as a model for successful vegetation restoration and green development.
Rawdat Alsbalah’s revival is rooted in the “Development of Floodplains and Meadows” initiative. This national project aims to restore biodiversity, enhance carbon capture, and combat desertification. The area is home to many native plants and serves as a site for nature education, research, and eco-tourism.
Innovative Techniques in Vegetation Restoration at Rawdat Alsbalah
The Center planted over 250,000 local seedlings and spread 2 tons of rangeland shrub seeds, including arta, saltbush, and wormwood, using modern machinery. It also tested the growth of arta and ghada trees from cuttings in sandy soil. To improve water retention, the team used the Vallerani (Delfino) technique for harvesting rainwater.
To protect the site, the Center installed a 58-kilometer fence and placed educational signs to guide visitors on eco-friendly behavior. These steps help manage grazing and vehicle access while preserving plant life.
Community Engagement and Biodiversity Protection in Al-Zulfi
During his visit, Dr. Al-Abdulqader met with the Beekeepers Association of Al-Zulfi. The association credited recent grazing policies for improving the flowering season, which increased both honey quality and yield. They also showed interest in future collaborations to support local vegetation and biodiversity.
Dr. Al-Abdulqader praised the teamwork between the Center, local groups, and officials. He said community support has helped protect Rawdat Alsbalah’s plant life and create a safe space for native animals and insects.
This visit highlights the importance of green restoration in Saudi Arabia’s environmental strategy. As more people visit during national events, Rawdat Alsbalah shows how nature recovery projects can protect ecosystems while benefiting local communities.
The Saudi Standard’s View: A Model for Desert Restoration and Local Resilience
Rawdat Alsbalah shows how clear policy, local knowledge, and scientific methods can restore fragile ecosystems. In a country where desertification threatens land and life, this project sets a path forward. It blends traditional skills, such as beekeeping, with tools like the Vallerani furrow to manage water and soil effectively. To meet Vision 2030 goals, Saudi Arabia must expand these efforts and keep communities at the Center of conservation work.
Discover more about conservation efforts in Saudi Arabia’s protected natural meadows.
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