When award-winning explorer and filmmaker Reza Pakravan ventures into the unknown regions of the Asian Arabian Peninsula, he must face his fears and ultimately, overcome his fears and accomplish his goals.

Reza is known for his expeditions to remote corners of the world. So when Saudi Arabia opened up to the world he wanted to lead a team on a trip to the unknown regions of the region. Their expedition and nearly two years of filming resulted in a six-part series, Hidden Borders: Arabia. ChainDropped on Discovery Channel and Discovery+ on May 13.

“We set out on a journey to solve Saudi Arabia,” says Reza. We discovered caves and valleys in which no human is believed to have ever set foot. We found that Oman also has a similar story to tell. Saudi Arabia was the catalyst for our adventure, the rest followed and allowed us to tell a beautiful story about the different species, habitats and water sources.

Throughout the season, viewers will be treated to the untamed expanse of the deserts of Oman, Iran, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. “Our expedition was not just about exploring new valleys and forests, it is a mix of exploration, education and adventure,” says Reza. The docu-series also features an excursion into the waters of Bahrain to document the elusive dugongs for possibly the first time.

They found valleys that were routes for human migration, connecting us to Neolithic history. They also discovered arrowheads and horns of a Neolithic ibex (which was thought to be extinct from the area). “Both have been deposited in a museum in Riyadh,” says Reza.

“We discovered endangered species and ways of life, and investigated ancient mysteries. It would not be wrong to say that we have put the limits of survival techniques to the ultimate test.” The explorers say that while maps, studies and equipment can guide them, the team needs about 18 months before their journey. He also had to undergo rigorous physical training. Reza says. “Physically preparing yourself for an expedition is as important as research. Our training also included deep sea diving for several hours. The ground experience is always much more difficult. We found ourselves inside caves with crystal clear water and 30 meters below the ground, in knee-deep water while our gas meters beeped to indicate low oxygen levels. We also reached an unexpected mountain situation where we committed ourselves to a really tough climb with broken rocks; We struggled to find our way. In Oman, the indigenous people came to our rescue in a similar situation.

As an explorer, Reza says finding new places is his passion, and now hidden boundaries series, he wants to show that remote corners continue to exist, shrouded in mystery and waiting to be discovered. To be part of the journey that uncovers these secrets and reveals the secrets of our planet is a privilege. The excitement of not knowing what’s going to happen next is a unique thrill,” he concluded. The second episode will air tonight at 9 pm while all other episodes will air on Monday.

what next? after Hidden Borders: ArabiaHe is looking Hidden Frontiers: China,

(Hidden Frontiers: Arabia airs every Monday at 9 pm on Discovery Channel and Discovery+)