As AlUla’s vision for sustainable development turns into reality, one particular area has bloomed with an extraordinary vigour in 2024.

Sharaan Nature Reserve was this year recognised as one of Time Magazine's World’s Greatest Places for 2024 and has become a shining example of AlUla’s commitment to sustainability and comprehensive ecological regeneration. An unmistakable area, thanks to its cinematic towering canyons, sweeping dunes and ancient petroglyphs, Sharaan is at the heart of AlUla’s mission to harmonise its ancient cultural heritage with environmental revitalisation.

The reserve is undergoing a transformative rewilding initiative, reintroducing species such as mountain gazelle, Arabian oryx and Nubian ibex to restore balance to its ecosystem. Vegetation restoration efforts, aligned with the Saudi Green Initiative, have enabled AlUla to reach its goal of planting 500,000 native trees and shrubs in Sharaan, with species carefully selected for their roles in halting desertification, supporting biodiversity and improving soil health.

While much of Sharaan’s restoration relies on passive methods, such as allowing the land to heal naturally, active interventions have provided a critical boost. These efforts enhance water retention, soil structure and resilience to climate change, creating thriving habitats for hundreds of species. Local community involvement has been key to this progress, with over 350 AlUla residents, students, and Royal Commission for AlUla employees contributing to planting events.

Sharaan's success also points to a grander ambition: the reintroduction of the Arabian leopard to the wild. Once native to the region, this critically endangered species has been the focus of RCU’s Arabian Leopard Conservation Breeding Centre in Taif. A landmark achievement came this summer with the birth of three cubs – the first triplets born in captivity in Saudi Arabia. These births bring the total number of Arabian Leopards at the centre to 32 – more than double the original 14 after RCU took over in 2020 – representing a vital step toward bolstering the species.

With Sharaan Nature Reserve flourishing and conservation milestones being reached at every step of the way, AlUla continues its emergence as a global model for sustainable tourism growth.

To book your tour of Sharaan Nature Reserve, click here.