Saudi Arabia has reached a major environmental and developmental milestone in 2025 with the official designation of North Riyadh Geopark and Salma Geopark as part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. This recognition places the Kingdom’s geological sites on the international map, advancing its role in sustainable development, conservation, and environmental tourism.
Saudi Geoparks Join the Global Stage
The announcement by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) marks the first time that Saudi Arabia has had sites included in the renowned Global Geoparks Network.
The inclusion of the North Riyadh Geopark and Salma Geopark reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to preserving its unique geoheritage while also supporting education and local economies through sustainable tourism.
These newly recognized Saudi geoparks highlight the geological, cultural, and environmental value of the Kingdom’s natural landscapes and are expected to become major destinations for geotourism and educational exploration.
A Rigorous Selection Process
UNESCO’s criteria for including sites in the Global Geoparks Network is highly selective.
They require comprehensive management strategies that combine conservation, education, and local community involvement. The inclusion of the Saudi geoparks demonstrates that the Kingdom has successfully met these standards, balancing the protection of geological features with long-term development goals.
Highlights of the North Riyadh Geopark
A high-level UNESCO delegation, led by Dr. Lidia Brito, Assistant Director General for Natural Sciences, recently toured the North Riyadh Geopark to mark the occasion. During the field visit, the delegation explored several key formations including:
- Abu Shaddad Cave – known for its rare geological features
- The Edge of the World escarpment – a dramatic cliff offering panoramic views and rock layers that reveal millions of years of geological history
The visit concluded in Ghamrah Village, where local heritage and landscapes were showcased through an interactive session with community members and environmental experts.
Sustainable Development and Economic Benefits
The creation and promotion of Saudi geoparks goes beyond environmental preservation. These sites are designed to:
- Foster local economic development through eco-tourism
- Create job opportunities in rural and natural areas
- Support scientific research and educational outreach
- Encourage community involvement and cultural exchange
This multi-sector approach includes collaboration between government bodies, private entities, and non-profit organizations, making it a model of inclusive and sustainable development.
Future Goals and Expansion
Saudi Arabia aims to expand its participation in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. The NCVC is actively working on developing and protecting 13 potential geopark sites across the Kingdom. These efforts are aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals and its wider strategy to promote nature-based tourism, environmental conservation, and biodiversity protection.
By continuing to invest in Saudi geoparks, the Kingdom is building a legacy of responsible environmental stewardship and international cooperation.
The official recognition of the North Riyadh Geopark and Salma Geopark as UNESCO Global Geoparks is a significant achievement for Saudi Arabia. These Saudi geoparks serve as models of conservation, education, and community development, and will play a key role in shaping the Kingdom’s environmental and tourism future.
As Saudi Arabia continues to develop its network of geoparks, the international spotlight will remain on its efforts to combine heritage protection with modern sustainability. The success of these projects proves that Saudi geoparks are not only preserving the past—but actively building a better future.
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The Saudi Geoparks achieving UNESCO recognition isn’t the only major news coming out of Riyadh, renowned ‘MrBeast’ has just signed with Riyadh Season, and you can read all about it here.
