Saudi Gazette report
RAFHA — The pavilion of Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve Development Authority has won the Best Display Platform Award in the Environmental and Cultural Heritage Conservation category at the 21st Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX). The exhibition, which began on Aug. 31 concluded on Sept. 8.
The authority’s pavilion aimed to promote ecotourism, as well as to establish the reserve as a global destination celebrated for its rich heritage and stunning natural beauty. The award reflects the authority's utmost keenness on supporting ecotourism and promoting cultural heritage. The authority's pavilion drew huge turnout from visitors, who enjoyed the innovative tourism programs presented by the authority. These programs included the Darb Zubaydah Winter Festival, environmental camps, and luxurious Husky Caravans.
The authority also displayed leading heritage landmarks such as King Abdulaziz Palace in Lina, Lina Heritage Market, Al-Ashar Pool, and Umm Al-Asafir Waterfall. It also provided with an exceptional experience of watching the stars in the dark sky through augmented reality glasses, that enabled visitors to have a unique opportunity to merge with nature in a quiet atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
The authority highlighted the Northern Reserve for Sustainable Hunting, the first reserve of its kind in the Kingdom, where it showcased various accommodation options such as eco-camps and eco-lodges, and provided information on permitted hunting methods and types of prey available. The authority strengthened its support for the local community by highlighting local craftsmen such as calligraphers, weavers, and beekeepers, and displayed the types of natural honey produced by them.
The pavilion also introduced the Husky Caravans, which offered a unique experience for individuals and families amidst nature and breathtaking landscapes. Camping activities and exceptional experiences, such as stargazing in the dark-sky, are highlighted.
Besides promoting ecotourism and working to conserve the environment, the authority involves the local community, and raises awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity and achieving sustainable development.
The pavilion also presented traditional folk shows with the melodies of the Hajini, the tunes of the Rababa, and the beats of the Samri drums of Unaizah. This active participation confirms the authority’s vision of preserving natural and cultural heritage, promoting awareness of eco-tourism, and supporting the local community, making its pavilion one of the most prominent destinations at the exhibition that attracted thousands of visitors from different countries around the world.
It is noteworthy that the Abu Dhabi International Exhibition attracted more than 250,000 visitors from 70 countries around the world, with the participation of 1,742 brands, in addition to hundreds of activities and live shows that included workshops and educational sessions.
The authority, the second-largest royal reserve, spanning 91,500 square kilometers, is home to more than 138 species of wildlife and over 179 plant species. It is distinguished by its breathtaking nature, unique environmental and biological diversity, as well as by its heritage landmarks, archaeological, and historical sites.
