The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve announced a (76.2%) decrease in the frequency of dust storms within its boundaries during the year 2026, an indicator reflecting the positive impact of its efforts in environmental protection and vegetation restoration, contributing to reducing environmental phenomena associated with land degradation.

The reserve explained that the decrease results from implementing integrated environmental programs and initiatives focused on enhancing vegetation cover, improving environmental conditions, reducing sand encroachment and drift, in addition to protecting soil from erosion, thus supporting ecosystem sustainability and enhancing their ability to withstand natural factors.

It emphasized that vegetation development contributes to soil stabilization, reduction of dust emissions, and improvement of environmental quality, positively reflecting on biodiversity and quality of life, and enhancing the sustainability of natural resources in the reserve.

The announcement coincides with the International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms, which falls on July 12 each year, affirming the importance of national efforts in mitigating the effects of dust storms through adopting sustainable environmental practices that contribute to land protection and conservation of natural resources, in line with the Kingdom's targets for vegetation development and environmental preservation.