1 research outputs found
Impacts of the rapid development in recreational demand on the desert environment: a case study of the Dammam region of Saudi Arabia
As the capital city of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, Dammam has undergone
rapid economic development in the last fifty years. Desert areas on the outskirts of
the city have become outdoor recreational places and picnicking areas, despite not
being designed for such use nor having basic facilities. In fact, local residents are
finding these sites more attractive than the projects established specifically by the
city authorities for recreational purposes.
This research examines if socio-cultural factors in Saudi society are the only reasons
for this pattern of outdoor recreation and also, the resulting impact on the desert
environment itself. A mixed-methods approach is used, based on questionnaires, go-along
interviews and participant observation, in order to understand how people are
using the desert and what it means to them. The physical and ecological condition of
the popular sites was also compared with the condition of an unused and also, a
protected area in the same region. In addition, a Global Positioning System was used
to establish the mutually acceptable distances maintained between desert picnickers
to satisfy privacy and territorial needs.
The research shows that Dammam residents use desert areas as outdoor recreation
spaces to escape from their urban environment, allowing women, particularly, to be
close to nature and retain their privacy, besides experiencing a feeling of freedom
and undertaking numerous activities with the full confidence that no stranger will
intrude. It also shows that for many users, the silence of the desert and its remoteness
enhances spirituality, and contemplation of God’s natural creation. In general, it
builds a picture of family members and also groups of single males gathering in the
desert for specific recreational reasons, highlighting the importance of such
recreation in local people’s lives across different ages and genders.
This increasing number of desert users, however, is found to be damaging the desert
environment and its long-term sustainability is threatened by vehicle use, litter, fires
and erosion. This is an urgent issue for residents and the professional and
governmental bodies responsible for its management. Thus, this research also
establishes basic guidelines for new developments that can better manage and protect
the desert environment