Vital Water Sources in Arid Environments

At the edges of the valley rocks and mountain folds in Tabuk, a natural phenomenon known locally as “alqultat” stands out—rock cavities formed by erosion that collect and trap water, creating natural reservoirs during rainy seasons.
Scattered across rocky areas, alqultat vary in size and depth based on the region’s geology, serving as vital water sources in dry and semi-arid environments.
These formations have ecological and historical significance. Throughout history, they’ve provided water for human seasonal movements, migrating birds, and local wildlife, especially during dry periods. Alqultat are a testament to how the rocky environment in Tabuk adapts to the climate, with the rock’s composition reducing evaporation and keeping water longer than open streams.
Today, alqultat remain an important natural resource, reflecting the region’s rich landscape and the need to preserve it for future generations.
— SPA