Saudi Geoparks Join UNESCO’s Global Geoparks Network for First Time

Saudi Arabia’s North Riyadh and Salma Geoparks have been officially added to UNESCO’s Global Geoparks Network, marking the first time the country has been included in the international list.

UNESCO Global Geoparks are designated based on their ability to balance the protection of natural landscapes with education, scientific research, and sustainable development. Key criteria include strong local community involvement, environmental stewardship, and opportunities for eco-tourism and research.

The milestone coincides with the 10th anniversary of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, which continues to connect sites noted for their rich geological heritage. Applications for new listings are reviewed annually by UNESCO’s Executive Board and the Global Geoparks Council, a panel of international experts.

North Riyadh Geopark is home to fossilised coral reefs dating back more than 150 million years, along with limestone caves and extensive mountain ranges. Salma Geopark features a range of geological and cultural landmarks, including the Harrat Hutaymah Crater, Taba Heritage Village, Salma Mountain, Faid Reservoir, Darb Zubaidah, Faid Museum, Maar Crater Formation, and Abu Alda’a Natural Park.

The announcement was part of a broader update in which 16 new sites joined the network, bringing the total to 229 geoparks across 50 countries. New additions this year also came from China, DPR Korea, Ecuador, Indonesia, Italy, Norway, South Korea, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam.