Landscape Planning and Characterisation For Ecotourism within Protected Areas in Saudi Arabia: A case Study in Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Royal Reserve

Abstract

Abstract This study delivers the first National Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) for Saudi Arabia, adapting a methodology traditionally developed for temperate, Western landscapes to an arid, culturally distinct context. While in the UK and Europe LCA frameworks are primarily based on vegetation, topography, and settlement patterns, this research modifies the approach to reflect the unique ecological and geographical characteristics of Saudi Arabia, where arid geomorphology, shifting sand formations, gravel plains, and rocky outcrops are more influential in shaping landscape character than the vegetation-driven diversity typical of temperate Western contexts.

A mixed-methods approach was employed comprising:

1. Desk Study: Review of international LCA frameworks and regional studies to develop a Saudi-specific classification system.

2. Site Investigation: Field investigations were conducted to support both the national-scale LCA of Saudi Arabia (Chapter 4) and the local assessment within PMBSRR, including Wadi Al Disah, presented in Chapter 5.

3. Questionnaire Survey (153 participants): Assessment of public perceptions of ecotourism potential in Wadi Al Disah and PMBSRR.

4. Semi-Structured Interviews (21 participants): Engagement with key stakeholders and government representatives to explore the potential role of LCA in planning policy and ecotourism development.

Findings demonstrate that LCA can be effectively adapted for arid environments and that the resulting landscape classifications provide an evidence base for conservation and sustainable tourism planning. At the national level, the research highlights inconsistencies between existing protected areas and landscape character types, while the local-scale analysis identifies zones suitable for ecotourism development based on landscape sensitivity and distinctiveness.

This work provides a framework for landscape classification in Saudi Arabia and offers a methodological foundation for future planning, aligning with national goals under Vision 2030. The study underscores the broader potential for applying LCA in Gulf countries with similar climatic and geographic contexts.