Natural lakes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are water bodies that form naturally as a result of geological formations. They represent a moist natural environment for the lands, distinguished from rivers by the scarcity of sedimentation and woody plants in them. Most of them are desert lakes formed by rainfall and runoff, attracting a variety of wildlife. Natural lakes in the Kingdom are classified as limited due to the formation of lakes in the Saudi deserts during the rainy periods witnessed by the Arabian Peninsula. Subsequently, the climate transitioned to a severely arid desert climate.
Al-Asfar Lake
Lake al-Asfar is located amidst the sand dunes in al-Ahsa Governorate in the Eastern Province. It is classified as one of the largest water bodies in the Arabian Gulf region, with an area of 326 million m² after being converted into a natural reserve.
The lake formed over the years from seasonal rains and treated drainage water from irrigation and drainage projects in the governorate. Its natural components include the surrounding trees and fine sand. Desert plants such as tamarisk, anabasis, fern, and calligonum crinitum surround the lake.
During the summer when its waters recede, some animals such as camels and sheep graze around it. The width and area of Lake al-Asfar change with the climate, both in summer and winter, while its length remains approximately twenty-five km, with small, extending coves.
The lake witnesses a complete wildlife life and serves as a habitat for various bird species. It also serves as a resting point for migratory birds of different kinds, with birds stopping there twice a year during their journey. Moreover, the lake is not devoid of aquatic life, including fish, turtles, and some amphibious animals, which are observed by park visitors.
Al-Asfar Lake is locally called 'the summer blue and the winter white', because its color changes to a darker color in the summer after absorbing agricultural drainage water and open drainage, without forming swamps. In the winter, its color becomes lighter due to the rain filtering it. The Saudi Tourism Authority has included Lake al-Asfar among the seventeen tourist destinations in the Kingdom.
Al-Khararah Lake
Al-Kharrarah Lake is located within al-Kharrarah Park, west of Riyadh near Tuwayq Mountain. It formed as a result of rainwater accumulation amidst the sand dunes, with the surrounding area turning into fertile pastures when its water recedes. Additionally, some wild animals settle in the area. During the winter season and when the lake's water level rises, it becomes a park visited by families, as it becomes a fertile environment for natural wildlife. Flocks of migratory birds also pass through it.
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