The vast landscapes of northern Saudi Arabia are becoming the compelling setting for a winter season built around nature, exploration, and cultural discovery.
The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve Development Authority launched ‘Winter at Darb Zubaida’ on November 2, 2026, introducing tourism programs across the reserve’s diverse natural and heritage locations.
There, visitors can experience an exceptional array of activities, from sustainable hunting and heritage exploration to observing the night sky in the Great Nafud desert.
What Makes This Reserve a Distinctive Destination?
The season reflects efforts to reinforce the reserve’s tourism appeal by seamlessly blending its environmental attractions with the region’s historical identity.
The launch in Rafha reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader push to expand the scale of its tourism landscape and introduce experiences that connect visitors with the country’s natural and cultural heritage.
Named after Imam Turki bin Abdullah, founder of the Second Saudi State, the reserve brings together extensive natural landscapes and sites of historical weight.
Through the winter season, the authority seeks to attract domestic and international visitors by presenting these assets through a combination of outdoor activities, heritage exploration, and nature-based experiences.
The initiative also highlights the growing role of environmental conservation and cultural preservation in shaping the Kingdom’s tourism development.
A Journey Through Nature and History
Visitors exploring the reserve this winter will find experiences that extend well beyond its dramatic desert landscapes.
At the North Reserve for Sustainable Hunting, regulated hunting activities introduce an outdoor experience centered on responsible practices and wildlife management.
A shooting range provides another option for visitors seeking recreational activities in a controlled setting.
The journey also takes visitors into the region’s historical landscape. The King Abdulaziz palaces in Laynah and Qibah will open during upcoming events, offering glimpses into the architectural heritage of the Kingdom’s early development.
Meanwhile, the Darb Zubaida caravan experience brings the memory of ancient travelers back into focus, recalling a route that once carried pilgrims and traders across vast stretches of the Arabian Peninsula.
Protecting the Natural Darkness of the Desert
The Great Nafud desert also enriches the season with an exclusive opportunity to explore the growing potential of astrotourism.
Its dark-sky site allows visitors to observe celestial bodies away from the artificial lighting that limits visibility in urban areas.
With its expansive dunes and clear night skies, the desert provides a compelling setting for astronomy-related activities while drawing attention to the scientific and cultural value of preserving natural darkness.
Dark skies have significance beyond the quality of stargazing. They allow astronomers to observe celestial objects with fewer disruptions from artificial light, while preserving a natural environment that has long shaped how communities understand and navigate their surroundings.
The season’s cultural program extends this connection through performances, local craft markets, and regional food stalls.
Visitors can also take part in weaving and pottery workshops, gaining a deeper understanding of traditional skills while creating opportunities for local artisans and entrepreneurs to benefit from tourism.
How Can Tourism Empower Local Communities?
The development of the reserve as a tourism destination also creates opportunities for local communities to participate in the sector’s growth.
This approach aligns perfectly with Saudi Vision 2030‘s emphasis on expanding employment opportunities and increasing women’s participation in the workforce.
Through training in areas such as hospitality, tour guiding, and handicrafts, women can develop skills that support their involvement in tourism-related activities.
Internships and volunteer programs can help them gain practical experience while building awareness of the region’s natural and historical assets. Investing in these skills and capabilities is crucial to ensuring that tourism growth generates lasting benefits for the communities connected to the reserve.
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