Wadis are dry river beds or have only intermittent or ephemeral streamflow. Because the Eastern Desert is so dry overall, plant and animal life is generally restricted to drainage systems. Plants grow on the sloping sides of the wadis or on islands within the main channels. The main channels are often without vegetation due to flooding, which makes it impossible for plants to take root. Springs in some wadis may support pockets of more water-dependant vegetation.

After the rain, lush vegetation at Gebel Elba Protected Area

A mirage in the sweltering summer heat

Acacia groves, Acacia raddiana at Wadi Edieb

Acacia groves, Acacia raddiana at Marsa Alam-Edfu road

Acacia groves, Acacia raddiana at dusk, Hamata