Researchers Uncover Arabia's Green Past, Impacting Human Migration

New research reveals that the Rub' al Khali, or Empty Quarter, of the Arabian Peninsula—now one of the world's largest and most arid deserts—was once home to vast lakes, rivers, grasslands, and savannas. These water-rich landscapes emerged during a period of heavy rainfall known as 'Green Arabia,' which lasted from around 11,000 to 5,500 years ago. The presence of these lakes and rivers supported the migration and settlement of human populations, as well as the expansion of hunter-gatherer and pastoralist groups. Eventually, a return to drought and a dramatic lake burst, which carved a 150-kilometer valley, transformed the lush environment into the arid desert seen today. This research highlights how climate cycles have profoundly shaped both the landscape and human societies in the region. The findings challenge assumptions that Arabia's deserts have always been barren, emphasizing their dynamic history.