Sharaan Nature Reserve, Nature reserve in AlUla, Saudi Arabia.
Sharaan Nature Reserve is a large protected area near AlUla featuring diverse geological formations and varied terrain. Red-rock canyons, desert plains, and valleys support different plant species adapted to the landscape's elevation and soil conditions.
Bedouin communities lived throughout this region for centuries, developing deep knowledge of the desert landscape and its resources. In recent decades, the area was designated as a protected reserve to conserve its ecosystems and wildlife.
The place represents a modern effort to protect the region's natural heritage while honoring traditional ways of life. Local guides share knowledge about the land and its inhabitants, connecting visitors to the environment in a personal way.
Exploration happens mainly through guided 4x4 tours, which are best suited for navigating rough terrain and remote areas. Most tours accept visitors from around age eight onward, making it accessible for families with older children.
The reserve is home to Arabian wolves, gazelles, and red foxes, whose presence maintains the ecosystem's balance. Plans are underway to reintroduce the critically endangered Arabian Leopard to its historical range.
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