ALULA: Despite having a diverse range of ecosystems, including high-altitude forests, lush oases, coral reefs, and coastal mangroves, Saudi Arabia is most recognized for its deserts. But these landscapes, quickly gaining popularity among outdoor enthusiasts, are also home to an astounding variety of animals that have lived in the area long before humans did. Conservationists are concerned about humans’ encroachment into these pristine habitats despite the animals’ resilience to the harshness of their surroundings.
According to Basmah Al-Mayman, regional director for the Middle East at UN Tourism (formerly UN World Tourism Organisation), “the rapid growth in tourist flows in recent decades has been accompanied by diversification, both geographically and in terms of tourism segments or products.” Al-Mayman spoke with Arab News. Desert destinations have benefited from this double-diversification process, which makes defining a sustainable approach to tourism development in desert areas even more urgent.”
Al-Mayman understands the importance of the Kingdom’s priceless ecosystems as a source of income and pride for her country, having been born and raised in Saudi Arabia. Nonetheless, she feels that it is the duty of the traveller, developers, and tourism sector to act sustainably.
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