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A Slice of Kerala in the Heart of the Desert: A Day Trip to Wadi Marwani.


This past Friday was truly unforgettable. For those of us living the expat life, the isolation of being away from home is often healed by the warmth of family gatherings. And when that gathering turns into an impromptu road trip, the experience becomes even sweeter.

Our journey began in Asfan, a short drive from Jeddah, where we visited my cousin’s newly opened shop. After offering our Friday prayers (Jummah), the spirit of adventure took over. We decided to head toward the Wadi Marwani Dam, located about 40 km from Asfan and roughly 125 km from the heart of Jeddah.


The Drive Through the Dunes

The drive itself was a visual treat. Our car surged forward along winding roads that showcased the diverse moods of the desert. We navigated through gentle slopes and rolling terrains, the landscape shifting with every turn, until we finally reached the massive structure of the dam.

Engineering Marvel: The Wadi Marwani Dam

Wadi Marwani is an imposing feat of engineering, stretching over half a kilometer in length and towering over 100 meters high. What surprised me most was its purpose. While we usually associate dams with irrigation or hydroelectric power, this colossus was primarily built for flood control—protecting the region from the flash floods that can occasionally sweep through the wadis. Additionally, the water is treated and utilized for drinking purposes.



Standing within the dam's perimeter, the water level was quite low, sitting far beneath us, but the sheer scale of the construction against the desert backdrop was breathtaking.

Al Khuwar: A Hidden Oasis

Leaving the dam behind, we drove further into a small, picturesque village called Al Khuwar. Tucked away between mountains that looked as if they were meticulously crafted from stacked stones, this village felt like a secret world.

We parked the car and set off on foot along a dusty trail. As we walked, the desert brown suddenly gave way to a lush, vibrant green. We found ourselves surrounded by thriving plantations of:

  • Fruit Trees: Mango, Jackfruit, Papaya, and Citrus.

  • Crops: Broad fields of Ladyfinger (Okra) and Maize.

  • Tropical Vibes: Clusters of Banana trees that swayed in the breeze.

Walking through these green corridors, we caught a distant view of the front of the dam. Below it, the released water had formed a serene lake. While the sight was beautiful, we felt a pang of disappointment as swimming was strictly prohibited.



A Taste of Home

Our walk eventually led us to a farm frequently visited by the Malayali community. We were first greeted by a lively flock of goats. The farm was a verdant sanctuary filled with Henna plants, lemon trees, and heavily laden banana stalks.

For a moment, the dry desert air felt cool and fresh. Surrounded by the greenery and the familiar scent of the trees, it felt as though we had been transported straight back to Kerala. It was a much-needed "homely" experience in the middle of our expat journey.



As the sun began to dip toward the horizon, we started our journey back to Jeddah, carrying with us the peace of the plantation and the memories of a Friday well spent.

Travel Tips for Wadi Marwani:

  • Distance: ~125 km from Jeddah.

  • Best Time: Friday afternoons for a relaxed pace.

  • Don't Miss: The walking trails in Al Khuwar village for the best greenery.

  • Note: Swimming is not allowed in the reservoir for safety reasons.

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