In a revolutionary project to enhance safety in its vast and unforgiving landscapes, Saudi Arabia is using solar-powered laser beacons to guide lost travelers to water sources in the Nafud Desert. This innovative initiative, which is a testament to the nation’s commitment to combining technology with tradition, is a guiding light for those in distress.

The project was conceived by Saudi explorer and environmental activist Mohammad Fohaid Al-Sohaiman, who was inspired by a series of tragic incidents where people succumbed to thirst despite being just a few kilometers from a well. The initiative, now supported by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, aims to prevent such tragedies by providing a simple and reliable visual aid.

The beacons are strategically placed near underground wells and are powered by solar panels, allowing them to operate autonomously. At night, they emit high-intensity laser beams that can be seen from tens of kilometers away, acting as a clear visual guide to a life-saving water source. The light remains visible even amidst sandstorms or low visibility, offering a reliable alternative to GPS and mobile phones, which can fail in remote areas.

“Many people lost their lives in the desert near water resources because they did not know that water resources were close to them,” Al-Sohaiman told local media. “The laser beacon is used so that anyone who gets lost in the desert can see the light at night and know where to find water.”

Initial trials began with 11 beacons in the northern Nafud Desert, and the project has already proven to be a success. With support from the government and a private businessman who has pledged to finance the expansion, there are plans to install a total of 100 beacons across the Hail and Jouf regions. This initiative is a beacon of hope, symbolizing a commitment to life, innovation, and the environment in a region where every kilometer can be a matter of life or death.