Farasan Archipelago: Saudi Arabia’s largest island cluster and a haven of biodiversity

Saudi Gazette report JAZAN — The Farasan Archipelago, certainly one of Saudi Arabia’s most important pure treasures, contains round 200 islands of various sizes, representing 15.6% of the Kingdom’s whole 1,285 islands and protecting an space of greater than 600 sq. kilometers. Positioned within the southern Crimson Sea, about 50 kilometers off the coast of Jazan, the archipelago consists of greater than 84 coral islands stretching throughout 1,050 sq. kilometers. It’s recognized for its white sandy seashores, turquoise waters and wealthy marine and wildlife ecosystems. The islands host over 180 species of vegetation and greater than 200 species of birds, alongside mangrove forests that help distinctive biodiversity. The archipelago attracts greater than 150,000 guests every year, significantly diving and fishing fanatics from around the globe. Farasan can also be residence to a number of archaeological websites, together with Wadi Matar and the traditional village of Al-Qassar, which preserves remnants from the Himyarite period. Different notable heritage landmarks embrace the Jamal Home on Qummah Island, the Rifai Home and the Najdi Mosque, in-built 1347 AH. The islands are traditionally recognized for his or her pearl fisheries and their proximity to the worldwide maritime route and the Bab Al-Mandab strait. The archipelago is the Kingdom’s largest habitat for the Arabian gazelle (Gazella arabica) and serves as a significant stopover for migratory birds, making it one of many area’s most necessary pure and historic websites.

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