RIYADH — Saudi Arabia’s environmental wealth extends across its coastlines, mountain ranges, and valleys, creating diverse ecosystems that support biodiversity, tourism, and sustainable development. Coinciding with World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) highlighted several regions across the Kingdom to showcase their preservation of natural resources while advancing national sustainability goals. The Red Sea’s marine ecosystemStretching along more than 1,800 kilometers of Saudi coastline and covering an estimated 186,000 square kilometers, the Red Sea continues to stand out as one of the world’s most sensitive and valuable marine environments. **media[2718754]** It hosts the world’s fourth-largest coral reef system and contains around 6.2% of global coral reefs, making it one of the Kingdom’s most significant environmental assets and a growing destination for marine tourism. As development along the coastline accelerates, environmental protection remains a central priority. In this context, the Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) — in cooperation with relevant entities — has developed the first mechanism to verify marine environmental protection at sites that host marine tourism activities. **media[2718753]** The initiative aims to transform sustainability from a broad concept into a measurable practice by embedding environmental compliance in the sector from the outset, rather than relying on corrective measures after development, in alignment with the National Red Sea Sustainability Strategy, which seeks to increase the share of protected marine and coastal areas from 3% to 30% by 2030 through 48 initiatives and five strategic objectives. Makkah’s wilderness parks and natural valleysMakkah’s wilderness parks, rich in environmental features and diverse landscapes that combine mountains, valleys, and vegetation, serve as natural retreats and popular destinations. **media[2718756]** These natural sites enhance the quality of life while promoting environmental awareness and encouraging appreciation of the Kingdom’s natural heritage. Among Makkah’s most notable natural destinations are Al-Maghmas Valley, known for its distinctive terrain and expansive open spaces, Wadi Nu'man, renowned for its diverse natural features, and Ain Shams, which offers visitors a tranquil escape from urban life. **media[2718757]** Authorities responsible for environmental protection and vegetation conservation continue to support these sites through afforestation programs, vegetation development initiatives, and efforts to preserve natural resources. Awareness campaigns also encourage positive environmental behavior and help reduce practices that may negatively affect ecosystems. These efforts form part of broader national initiatives aimed at expanding vegetation cover, protecting wildlife, and strengthening environmental sustainability. **media[2718755]** Asir’s biodiversity and ecological diversityWidely regarded as one of Saudi Arabia’s richest areas in terms of environmental diversity, the Asir Region’s unique geography stretches from the towering peaks of the Sarawat Mountains, some rising more than 3,000 meters above sea level, through lush highlands with dense vegetation, to the coastal plains of Tihama. **media[2718759]** The region’s climatic diversity further enhances its environmental significance. The highlands enjoy relatively moderate temperatures throughout the year and receive some of the highest seasonal rainfall levels in the Kingdom, supporting the growth of juniper forests, wild olive trees, acacia species, and the aromatic and medicinal plants for which the mountains of Asir are well known. **media[2718762]** According to data from the National Center for Wildlife, Saudi Arabia is home to more than 500 bird species, with the mountainous areas of the southwest, including Asir, serving as some of the Kingdom’s most important habitats for resident and migratory birds. **media[2718764]** The Kingdom’s terrestrial ecosystems also support around 78 mammal species, 84 lizard species, 45 snake species, and more than 6,800 insect species, reflecting the richness and ecological balance of its natural environments. **media[2718760]** Nature reserves across Asir play a critical role in preserving natural habitats, maintaining ecological balance, and combating environmental degradation. They also support afforestation and vegetation restoration efforts that align with national initiatives to combat desertification and strengthen environmental sustainability. **media[2718763]** At the same time, growing interest in ecotourism is helping position Asir as a leading environmental destination through sustainable tourism activities that support local communities and create nature-based economic opportunities. **media[2718758]** Together, these efforts reinforce Asir’s position as one of the Kingdom’s leading environmental and tourism destinations while supporting the broader goals of protecting biodiversity, promoting sustainability, and enhancing quality of life.
