Edinburgh-based explorer and BBC presenter Alice Morrison is preparing for a historic expedition across Saudi Arabia. The 61-year-old aims to become the first recorded person to walk the Kingdom from north to south, a journey spanning 2,500 kilometers. Starting next month, this extraordinary endeavor will take her through Saudi Arabia’s vast deserts, oases, and mountains, accompanied by camels and local guides.
Amplifying Voices and Exploring New Frontiers
Morrison’s journey is about more than adventure; it’s a platform to highlight the stories of Saudi women. Prominent figures such as explorer Princess Abeer Al Saud, racing driver Mashael Al-Obadain, and travel guide Sara Omar plan to join her for parts of the route. Morrison will also walk with the nation’s first female wildlife rangers, learning about their efforts to restore extinct plants and animals.
“I’ve been studying Arabic and the Middle East for 45 years, but Saudi remained closed to me,” Morrison remarked. “Now, I get to explore the heart of Arabia, meet its people, and amplify the voices of its women.”
Morrison aims to challenge stereotypes about Saudi women by sharing their diverse stories with the world. She believes her perspective as a female explorer provides unique access to this narrative. “The view of Saudi women in the West is often one-dimensional,” she said. “As a woman, I’m uniquely positioned to tell their stories.”
Documenting History and Climate Change
The journey will not only uncover historical sites but also document the impacts of climate change. “The desert is a harsh mistress,” Morrison explained. “It will teach me many lessons as I record my findings along the way.”
The trek’s first stage, set for January and February 2025, will last seven weeks. It will take Morrison from Saudi Arabia’s border with Jordan to the gates of Madinah. Due to the extreme heat and the holy month of Ramadan, the journey will span two winter seasons.
An Experienced Adventurer
Morrison is no stranger to challenges. She was the first woman to walk the length of the Draa River, traversing Morocco and the Sahara with camels. Her experiences have been featured in a BBC series filmed in Petra, Jordan, and AlUla, Saudi Arabia.
Morrison, the author of four travel books, will document this expedition in her upcoming book and a film. She hopes her story inspires others, especially mid-life women, to pursue their dreams. “At 25, I couldn’t have done this. Life experience brought me here,” she explained.
Saudi Arabia’s recent tourism opening provides a rare backdrop for Morrison’s expedition. By walking through its landscapes and connecting with its people, she aims to build bridges between cultures. Her journey promises to inspire and inform, shedding light on a country in transition.
