Wadi al-Naam - The ostrich inscriptions

 Also known as the Abu Oud Trail, the Wadi Al-Naam trail was recently developed by the local tourism authorities. It derives its name, Ostrich Valley, from the numerous ostrich inscriptions found along the trail, alongside depictions of other animals and figures. The ostrich inscriptions uniquely portray the animals as square shapes with a dot in the centre. In addition to the inscriptions, the hike features a beautiful little canyon where informative signs explain various aspects of the surrounding environment. 

There is an option to take a guided tour from the Wadi Al-Naam Visitor Centre where a 4WD vehicle will transport visitors most of the way, requiring minimal walking. Alternatively, you may choose to do the hike independently, allowing you to include an extra segment with fantastic views. Walking the whole circuit takes about 2.5 hours. It is an easy hike but involves walking on very soft sand. 

The hike in Google Maps 

Open the menu to turn waypoints on and off.

Hikes around Riyadh: Edge of the World | Camel Trail | Graffiti Rock ; Abha: Jabal Soudah | Wadi Lajab | Jabal Ferwa ; Najran: Raoum ; Bisha: White Mountain ; Taif: Kara Heritage Trail | Harithi Escarpment | Al-Waba Crater ; Medina: Mount Sela | Mount Uhud ; Al-Ula: Wadi al-Naam | Mahash Viewpoint | Dadan Trail ; Tabuk: Wadi al-Deesah | Jabal Shayban | Wadi al-Aqlah | "Real Mount Sinai" 

The hike in photos





















































































































Hikes around Riyadh: Edge of the World | Camel Trail | Graffiti Rock ; Abha: Jabal Soudah | Wadi Lajab | Jabal Ferwa ; Najran: Raoum ; Bisha: White Mountain ; Taif: Kara Heritage Trail | Harithi Escarpment | Al-Waba Crater ; Medina: Mount Sela | Mount Uhud ; Al-Ula: Wadi al-Naam | Mahash Viewpoint | Dadan Trail ; Tabuk: Wadi al-Deesah | Jabal Shayban | Wadi al-Aqlah | "Real Mount Sinai" 

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