In a remarkable environmental development, the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification reports a remarkable 600% surge in green spaces across the Makkah region from August to December 2023. This substantial increase is credited to abundant rainfall, reaching up to 200 mm in specific areas during the five-month period.

Utilizing remote sensing data analysis, findings indicate that the initial vegetation cover in Makkah in August measured 3,529.4 square kilometers, accounting for 2.3% of the region's total area. With consistent rainfall, this area progressively expanded, culminating in a substantial 26,256 square kilometers by the year's end.

By December 2023, the vegetation cover encompassed 17.1% of the Makkah region's total area, predominantly thriving in the mountainous and highland areas parallel to the Red Sea coast, featuring elevations ranging from 500 to 2,600 meters. Noteworthy locations include the governorates of Makkah, Taif, Al Laith, Al Jumum, Al Kamil, and Khulais.

The National Center, employing advanced technologies such as remote sensing and artificial intelligence, conducts comprehensive studies on vegetation cover areas, monitoring changes at tree-planting project sites. This data contributes significantly to meeting the objectives of tree-planting projects and the Saudi Green initiative.

Furthermore, the center is actively engaged in safeguarding vegetation cover sites throughout the Kingdom, leveraging in-depth analysis of variables in green spaces and developing capabilities to anticipate and mitigate the impact of drought.