How conservation efforts are helping Saudi Arabia’s northern deserts bloom

How conservation efforts are helping Saudi Arabia’s northern deserts bloom
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Silene arabica is found in desert and semi-desert ecosystems, such as the area stretching from north Africa, Saudi Arabia to southern Iran. (SPA photo)
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Updated 12 April 2025
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How conservation efforts are helping Saudi Arabia’s northern deserts bloom

How conservation efforts are helping Saudi Arabia’s northern deserts bloom
  • The Kingdom’s northern deserts are flowering once again thanks to heavy rainfall and national biodiversity rehabilitation efforts
  • Once endangered, Silene arabica is now thriving, benefiting from reduced grazing and natural drought-resistant adaptations

RIYADH: Following an unusually wet season, Saudi Arabia’s northern desert has erupted into a sea of wildflowers. Among the most striking sights is Silene arabica, a rare species once on the brink of extinction, now thriving thanks to a national commitment to conservation.

Part of the Caryophyllaceae family — commonly known as the “pink family” — Silene arabica is one of 3,000 species within the group, which also includes the sun-loving Dianthus and the delicate Gypsophila, better known as “baby’s-breath.”

What sets Silene arabica apart is its remarkable resilience. Unlike its thirstier relatives, this hardy desert dweller thrives in clayey soils and stores water internally, making it uniquely suited to Saudi Arabia’s arid northern border region.

Its natural range spans desert and semi-desert ecosystems stretching from North Africa to southern Iran, but this year’s extraordinary bloom has made it a poster child for Saudi Arabia’s expanding efforts to protect its native flora.

Beyond Silene arabica, countless other wild plants are enjoying a resurgence — the result not only of rainfall, but also of determined national efforts to rehabilitate and safeguard the Kingdom’s biodiversity.

One of the driving forces behind this green renaissance is the Saudi Arabia Botanical Society, co-founded by Munira Al-Hazani and Joshua van Alstine. Al-Hazani is the first woman in the world to found a national botanical society.




A campaign post of the Saudi Arabia Botanical Society, one of the driving forces behind the Kingdom's green renaissance. (Instagram: Saudi Botanical Society)

The organization’s goals include preserving native species, building a national botanical garden and institute and cultivating environmental awareness across the country.

“We are doing this as a service to human beings through nature,” Texas-born van Alstine told Arab News. “We are not doing this only to walk around and say, ‘we do plant research, we do plant conservation.’ We are doing this to make life better for humans.”

A longtime admirer of Saudi Arabia, van Alstine said his passion for the Kingdom’s natural environment led him to become part of its sustainable development journey.

“I really want to make the biggest impact possible,” he said. “I thought, how can I do something, really, in the service of the Kingdom, and I thought of serving Saudi Arabia’s soil and plants. I really see Saudi Arabia becoming the world’s first fully green state.”




Silene arabica is found in desert and semi-desert ecosystems, such as the area stretching from north Africa, Saudi Arabia to southern Iran. (SPA photo)

Among the native species championed by the society is Horwoodia dicksoniae, commonly known as Saudi lavender. Yet protecting these desert-adapted plants requires an understanding of their unique survival strategies — and the fragile conditions that sustain them.

“What do plants need? Plants need carbon in their soil, they need minerals in their soil, and they also need to be in a place where water is going to be stored after it rains,” said van Alstine.

This is where the desert’s hidden geology plays a critical role. “We see native plants in a lower area, rocky areas, in the desert,” he said.

“No matter where you are in the desert, if you see native plants, there is most likely going to be rocks either under the sand or above the sand, but you will see these plants are kind of growing in areas that don’t get very much wind, in comparison to the rest of the desert … and they have some sort of shade from the rough desert conditions.”

These rocky pockets act like underground rain barrels, collecting water that can sustain plants through long dry periods. Native species like Silene arabica have evolved long, deep roots to reach these hidden reserves.

DID YOU KNOW?

• Silene arabica is typically found in areas that retain rainwater, such as valleys and clay soils.

• The native plant species flowers during the spring and after periods of heavy rainfall.

• Caryophyllaceae has 89 genera and 3,000 species found all over the world.

But resilience alone is not always enough. Over the years, Silene arabica has become increasingly scarce, in large part due to overgrazing. “That is what made them disappear. There is overgrazing,” said van Alstine.

Grazing animals, especially camels, are drawn to the flower’s grassy stems and white blooms. Their popularity among foragers has taken a toll on the population. In response, the National Center for Vegetation Cover has taken steps to limit grazing in sensitive areas, allowing native species the chance to recover.




Silene arabica's grassy stems and white blooms are a favorite of grazing animals, especially camels. (SPA)

The impact is already visible. From plains to rocky valleys, wild plants are reclaiming their place in the landscape — a transformation that is being noticed not just by scientists and conservationists but by residents and visitors alike.

Silene arabica may be one of the stars of this year’s desert bloom, but it is far from the only beneficiary. Thanks to coordinated efforts to curb destructive practices and promote responsible land stewardship, Saudi Arabia’s desert is alive once again with color and life.

And for those working to make it happen, this is just the beginning.
 

 


Saudi FM arrives in Madrid for talks on Gaza crisis and two-state solution conference

Saudi FM arrives in Madrid for talks on Gaza crisis and two-state solution conference
Updated 7 sec ago
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Saudi FM arrives in Madrid for talks on Gaza crisis and two-state solution conference

Saudi FM arrives in Madrid for talks on Gaza crisis and two-state solution conference
  • Upcoming conference will be co-chaired by the Kingdom and France

MADRID: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrived in Madrid on Saturday to take part in an expanded ministerial meeting convened by the committee formed during the Extraordinary Joint Arab-Islamic Summit on developments in the Gaza Strip, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The meeting, which includes representatives from the Madrid Group and several European nations, will address the latest developments in both Gaza and the West Bank, with a focus on efforts to halt the ongoing conflict and alleviate the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.

Discussions will also include preparations for a high-level international conference on the two-state solution, set to take place at the United Nations headquarters in New York this June.

The upcoming conference will be co-chaired by the Kingdom and France.


Saudi minister of state for foreign affairs meets US delegation in Riyadh

Saudi minister of state for foreign affairs meets US delegation in Riyadh
Updated 39 min 12 sec ago
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Saudi minister of state for foreign affairs meets US delegation in Riyadh

Saudi minister of state for foreign affairs meets US delegation in Riyadh
  • Two sides review relations between countries, regional, international developments 

RIYADH: Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel Al-Jubeir met a delegation from the US House of Representatives on Saturday at the ministry’s headquarters in Riyadh, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The delegation was headed by Michael Lawler, member of Congress and the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee.

The two sides reviewed the long-standing relations between Saudi Arabia and the US, and also discussed key regional and international developments, as well as issues of mutual concern, the SPA added.

The meeting followed the visit of US President Donald Trump to the Kingdom earlier this month and reflects ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two nations.


Saudi authorities crack down on illegal Hajj activities

Saudi authorities crack down on illegal Hajj activities
Saudi authorities inspect Hajj permits at Makkah entry points for pilgrim safety. (X: @insharifain)
Updated 24 May 2025
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Saudi authorities crack down on illegal Hajj activities

Saudi authorities crack down on illegal Hajj activities
  • 21 arrested for transporting, 84 pilgrims caught without permits

MAKKAH: The Ministry of Interior is continuing its efforts to prevent individuals without Hajj permits from entering or staying in Makkah and the holy sites, warning that violators and facilitators will be arrested and penalized.

The Hajj Security Forces at Makkah’s entrances arrested eight residents and 12 citizens for transporting 75 individuals without permits to perform Hajj, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

The ministry issued administrative decisions through seasonal committees against the transporters, accomplices, and those transported. 

Penalties include imprisonment, fines of up to SR100,000 ($26,600), public naming of violators, deportation of residents, and a 10-year ban from re-entering Saudi Arabia after sentencing. 

The ministry has also called for the confiscation of vehicles used in unauthorized transportation and for fines of up to SR20,000 for those attempting Hajj without a permit.

In a separate incident, a Saudi citizen was arrested for transporting nine visa-holding expatriates without Hajj permits, the SPA reported. 

All individuals involved have been referred to relevant authorities to enforce the prescribed penalties.

The ministry has urged all citizens and residents to comply with Hajj regulations to ensure the safety of pilgrims. It warned that performing or attempting Hajj without a permit from April 29 to June 10 was prohibited. 

The ministry has encouraged the public to report violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, or 999 elsewhere in the Kingdom.

Meanwhile, security patrols in Makkah have arrested four Indonesian expatriates for fraudulently promoting fake and misleading Hajj campaigns on social media, and falsely offering accommodation and transportation within the holy sites.

They were also found promoting forged Nusuk Hajj cards and violating Hajj regulations by harboring 14 individuals without permits in a building.

The suspects were detained, legal action was taken, and they were referred to the Public Prosecution. Those harbored were referred to the competent authorities for the prescribed penalties.

Hajj Security Forces last week arrested 43 residents and 39 citizens in separate incidents for transporting 259 individuals without Hajj permits.

According to a recent report by the General Directorate of Passports, a total of 890,883 pilgrims from abroad have arrived in the Kingdom for Hajj from air, land, and sea.

The directorate reaffirmed its commitment to streamlining entry procedures by equipping all ports with advanced technology and multilingual staff.


Kingdom arrests 13,118 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 13,118 illegals in one week
Updated 24 May 2025
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Kingdom arrests 13,118 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 13,118 illegals in one week

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 13,118 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

A total of 8,150 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 3,344 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 1,624 for labor-related issues.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($267,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.


How wildflowers bring color and ecological balance to Saudi Arabia’s deserts

How wildflowers bring color and ecological balance to Saudi Arabia’s deserts
Updated 24 May 2025
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How wildflowers bring color and ecological balance to Saudi Arabia’s deserts

How wildflowers bring color and ecological balance to Saudi Arabia’s deserts
  • Conservation efforts and nature reserves are helping the Kingdom’s native desert flora make a strong comeback
  • Desert wildflowers like Zahrah and Zamlouq symbolize resilience, blooming in some of the world’s harshest environments

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s landscapes are brightened each year by a dazzling array of wildflowers that bring bursts of color and life to its deserts and valleys.

Among the most iconic are Bassia eriophora, Senecio glaucus (locally known as Zamlouq), and Tribulus omanense (commonly called Zahrah). These species are celebrated not only for their natural beauty but also for their ecological, historical, and cultural significance.

In the Northern Borders Province, the desert is seasonally transformed into a living canvas by the arrival of Zamlouq, one of the region’s most striking wildflowers. Once near extinction, this annual herbaceous plant is now enjoying a revival.

Also known as Nowair or Yellow Arabian, Zamlouq germinates rapidly after rainfall and can grow up to 20 centimeters tall. It is easily recognized by its elongated, strap-like leaves and bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that enrich the desert with vibrant color.

Zamlouq emits a distinctive, aromatic fragrance that attracts bees and butterflies, playing a vital role in pollination and supporting ecological balance.

Zamlouq, also known as Nowair or Yellow Arabian, not only provides valuable forage for livestock and wildlife but also helps stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. (SPA)

It typically blooms from late winter into spring, carpeting the desert floor with natural ground cover that boosts soil fertility and provides valuable forage for livestock and wildlife. It also helps stabilize the soil and prevent erosion — especially in open desert areas.

“This annual herb thrives in sandy plains and open rangelands, blooming in spring,” Ghalia Aljeddani, associate professor of plant ecology at the University of Jeddah’s Department of Environmental Sciences, told Arab News.

“It serves as valuable forage for livestock and contributes to soil stabilization and ecological beautification.”

Another native species creating a breathtaking spectacle during the blooming season is the Ramth shrub (Haloxylon salicornicum), particularly in the valleys of the Northern Borders, such as Wadi Arar and its tributaries. Recent thunderstorms and rainfall have triggered renewed floral activity in these regions.

Ramth is a perennial, evergreen shrub known for both its ecological and pastoral value. Conservation efforts, including the establishment of nature reserves, have helped restore this once-declining species and expand Saudi Arabia’s green cover.

Ramth (Haloxylon salicornicum), a perennial desert shrub, thrives across the Arabian Peninsula under harsh desert conditions. (SPA photo)

Highly valued by herders as a key “Hamad” (palatable pasture shrub), Ramth typically grows to around 1 meter tall and can spread across several square meters. Its scale-like, tubular leaves retain moisture, allowing it to thrive in extreme desert conditions.

When protected from grazing, Ramth demonstrates a remarkable capacity to regenerate. In mid-summer, its foliage produces tiny granules of pure white sugar — a unique feature in its ecological profile.

Ramth is “commonly used as camel forage and firewood,” said Aljeddani.

“It is also a natural source of salt for camels and has uses in cleaning products and some medicinal applications. Its ability to thrive in saline and arid environments makes it a promising solution for combating desertification.”

DID YOU KNOW?

• More than 800 types of wildflowers have been recorded across the Arabian Peninsula.

• After rainfall, the deserts, rocky mountains and gravel plains burst into life with greenery.

• Despite their relatively small sizes, wildflowers in Saudi Arabia are remarkably resilient.

• Bedouin have long used wild plants to treat infections and for health-boosting properties.

Among the diverse Tribulus species found across the Arabian Peninsula, Tribulus omanense — locally known as Zahrah — stands out with its large, vivid yellow flowers and soft, feathery foliage.

This trailing plant thrives in loose sands and high desert dunes and can grow up to 80 centimeters tall, adding a dramatic splash of color to otherwise barren terrain. Belonging to the Zygophyllaceae family, Zahrah is distinguished by its star-shaped flowers with five delicate petals and its spiny seed capsules.

Tribulus omanense — locally known as Zahrah — is a creeping annual plant from the (Zygophyllaceae) family, distinguished by clover-like compound leaves and bright yellow flowers. (SPA photo)
Tribulus omanense stands out with its large, vivid yellow flowers and soft, feathery foliage. (SPA photo)

Its deep green, pinnate leaves and sprawling stems enhance its ornamental appeal, while its winter bloom transforms the desert into a radiant sea of yellow. Zahrah serves as an important food source for desert ungulates like gazelles and oryx, as well as for domesticated animals.

Native to the Arabian Peninsula, Zahrah is exceptionally adapted to harsh conditions, tolerating extreme heat, drought, and sandy soils. Its water-saving mechanisms make it indispensable to desert ecosystems.

Beyond its ecological value, Tribulus omanense is revered as a symbol of endurance and vitality — mirroring the resilience of the desert and the spirit of the people who call it home.

The Arnebia decumbens plant, a seasonal wildflower that flourishes in the Kingdom's Northern Borders region during spring, serves as a vital food source for wildlife and livestock and contributes to ecological balance and soil stabilization in sandy areas. (SPA)

Yet environmental pressures such as climate change, overgrazing, and urban expansion threaten the resurgence of these plants. Authorities are working to raise public awareness about the importance of conserving native vegetation to preserve biodiversity and protect the Kingdom’s natural heritage.

These measures will help maintain ecological balance without excessive strain on water resources, enhance natural resistance to drought and desertification, and support the development of resilient and sustainable ecosystems.

“These wildflowers are not merely natural adornments of the land,” said Aljeddani. “They play vital environmental, cultural, and economic roles and significantly contribute to national initiatives aimed at achieving sustainability.”