Great Reef in Red Sea: A key marine reserve and natural landmark for Saudi Arabia
Vibrant ecosystem off Jeddah’s coast remains vital habitat for marine life, despite environmental challenges
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — Saudi Arabia’s Great Reef, located approximately 24 kilometers off the coast of Jeddah, is a significant marine reserve and a crucial part of the country’s coral reefs in the heart of the Red Sea.
Saudi Arabia’s western coastline is known for its diverse marine environment, extending over approximately 6 square kilometers. This region showcases the beauty of marine life and its various ecosystems.
Beyond the natural coral formations, the Great Reef is also home to cavities and holes created by marine organisms, which are part of the local mechanical weathering processes.
Despite being influenced by environmental and natural factors such as sea currents, tides, waves, and human activities, the waters of the reef remain pure and clean. This allows the coral reefs to thrive, continuing the marine life cycle.
Tariq Aba Al-Khail, the official spokesperson for the Saudi Geological Survey (SGS), explained that the Great Reef has retained its status as a vibrant marine environment.
It serves as a key mooring point for small boats and is a popular destination for birdwatching, where seabirds breed and find shelter.
Aba Al-Khail emphasized that the coral formations in this region have become a significant tourist attraction, with visitors drawn to the area for swimming, diving, and exploring the depths of the sea.
He noted ongoing efforts to raise awareness about environmental conservation to protect this unique natural landmark.
The Red Sea is home to the world’s second-longest coral reef system, stretching over 2,000 kilometers.
Saudi Arabia, with its 1,760-kilometer coastline, boasts the longest coastline among Red Sea countries and features a variety of fringing coral reef systems.
Coral reefs are known for their extraordinary biodiversity, supporting about 25% of all known marine species, despite occupying less than 1% of the ocean floor.
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