Knowliom, an expert in creating immersive cultural experiences that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia, has created and operated Wadi AlNaam as part of its partnership with the Royal Commission for AlUla.
Wadi AlNaam is a site of historical and natural beauty. Also known as Ostrich Valley, it is believed to be the ancient hunting ground of the Dadan civilization, who skilfully used the gorge’s landscape to catch a variety of wildlife, particularly ostriches.
The Knowliom team created a two-hour journey for visitors to explore the landscape. This included ostrich watching, well-designed pavilions, viewing platforms along the route, and foot trails for guests to encounter the inscriptions along the mountain Jabal Ikmah. The company also developed a comprehensive hospitality plan that connected guests to the traditions of Arabian hospitality.
The experience ran from November 2023 to February 2024 and welcomed 2,485 visitors.
Threads of Nostalgia
Knowliom aims to inspire future leaders in science and culture. The company provides interactive learning experiences and supports clients with programme development, operational planning, and project management. It works to assist educational stakeholders in achieving their goals by providing engaging and inspiring learning experiences for communities in the region.
The company created Threads of Nostalgia, a concept that breathes life into the art of weaving, after being inspired by the flying carpet carved into one of Wadi AlNaam’s mountains.
The Wadi AlNaam Tapestry of Stories experience honoured the historical significance of Wadi AlNaam by taking visitors on an interactive journey that told diverse tales from the region. A team of tour guides was trained in skills such as storytelling, communication, and customer service to offer the finest visitor experience.
Guests were driven in buggies to a viewing area with a panoramic view, where they could read the inscriptions on the rocks using standing binoculars.
The ostrich-shaped platform created a focal point in the area and raised awareness about the ancient home of ostriches, which are now extinct on the peninsula. After hiking on selected trails, visitors could take part in camel or falcon activities to immerse themselves in local culture and create unforgettable memories.
Last year, Knowliom announced a new partnership with the Royal Commission for AlUla under which it will oversee the ongoing development and management of visitor centres located near AlUla, Tayma, and Khaybar.
