Nafud al-‘Urayq Natural Reserve

Nafud al-'Urayq Natural Reserve covers a vast desert expanse in central Saudi Arabia, featuring flat gravel plains interspersed with granite and basalt rocky outcrops. The landscape shifts between wide open plateaus and prominent mountain formations that break up the terrain.

The reserve was established in 1994 to protect both wildlife and desert vegetation in this region. Its creation reflected a turning point in safeguarding this particular desert landscape.

The reserve maintains strong connections with surrounding communities who participate in conservation programs and environmental education initiatives.

The area lies southwest of Buraydah and requires prior arrangements or permissions for entry. Visitors should expect to coordinate with local authorities and make necessary preparations beforehand.

The area supports specialized plant species like Lycium that provide food for migrating birds in the dry environment. These oasis-like conditions persist despite the extreme aridity of the desert.