More than 150 caves have been recognized for their significant scientific value, with some serving as natural records of the planet’s geological and climatic history, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Caves also have a growing role in the development of sustainable ecotourism, the Saudi Geological Survey said. The organization is working to uncover and study these sites as part of the national strategy, the SPA added.
Studies offer precise scientific evidence of environmental changes the region has undergone over thousands of years, including rare plant and animal remains from species that become extinct due to natural shifts.
He highlighted the organization’s role as a reference for accurate geological data and its commitment to building partnerships with academic and research institutions to strengthen the knowledge base and raise community awareness about the value of these natural resources.
In a major development aimed at enhancing Saudi Arabia’s tourism potential, Eng. Abdullah Al-Shamrani, CEO of the Saudi Geological Survey (SGS), revealed plans to establish a geological museum in Saudi Arabia. The project, which is being coordinated in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, seeks to highlight the country’s rich geological history and turn many of its natural caves into tourist attractions. This initiative, which includes more than 150 caves, is part of a larger effort to diversify Saudi Arabia’s tourism offerings beyond its historical and cultural landmarks.
Al-Shamrani noted that SGS is working closely with the Ministry of Tourism to provide detailed geological data for each site that could be transformed into a tourist destination. Among the caves being considered are the Umm Jarsan cave, which stretches 1.5 kilometers near Madinah, and Abu Al-Waul Cave, the longest in the Kingdom, located in Harrat Khaybar in the Madinah region. These caves hold immense natural beauty and historical significance, making them ideal candidates for geological tourism.
The coordination between SGS and the Ministry of Tourism also extends to the creation of the geological museum itself. Al-Shamrani explained that fossils and other geological findings from across Saudi Arabia will be included in the museum’s displays. These exhibits will not only offer scientific insights but also add a new dimension to the Kingdom’s growing tourism industry, attracting travelers with an interest in geology and natural history.
Al-Shamrani highlighted the economic potential of this initiative. The Saudi mining sector, already valued at $2.5 trillion, plays a significant role in the country’s economy. The geological museum and the development of tourist caves could further contribute to this by opening new avenues for both local and international investments. With over 2,300 mining licenses already issued, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a hub for both geological research and tourism.
The growing focus on geological tourism could lead to an influx of visitors, particularly those with an interest in nature, adventure, and history. By tapping into this niche market, Saudi Arabia is likely to attract a new segment of travelers, increasing overall tourist footfall in the country.
The establishment of a geological museum and the opening of caves as tourist attractions will have global implications for travelers. Saudi Arabia, a country traditionally associated with religious and cultural tourism, is expanding its tourism profile by venturing into geological tourism. This expansion will likely draw tourists from around the world, particularly those seeking more specialized and immersive travel experiences.
With caves such as Abu Al-Waul containing skeletons of extinct animals and other ancient geological formations, these sites are expected to attract both scientists and casual tourists alike. The potential for international tourism growth is significant, as the world becomes increasingly interested in eco-tourism and adventure travel. This development aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader vision to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil revenues, with tourism playing a key role in this transformation.
In addition to the geological museum, the caves being developed for tourism offer unique attractions. Umm Jarsan cave, with its 1.5-kilometer stretch, is known for its natural beauty and historical value. Abu Al-Waul Cave, on the other hand, boasts an impressive array of extinct animal skeletons, adding another layer of intrigue for visitors interested in paleontology and natural history. The discovery of fossils, including remains of extinct mammals and a 37-million-year-old whale, further enhances the appeal of these sites for tourists.
The geological museum, when established, will house a variety of exhibits, including fossils, minerals, and stones that reflect the geological diversity of Saudi Arabia. The museum will serve as both an educational and tourist destination, offering insights into the country’s geological history and providing a new experience for international and domestic travelers.
The creation of a geological museum and the transformation of Saudi Arabia’s caves into tourist sites mark a new chapter for the country’s tourism industry. By embracing geological tourism, Saudi Arabia is diversifying its attractions and appealing to a broader audience of global travelers. The collaboration between the Saudi Geological Survey and the Ministry of Tourism ensures that this initiative will be both scientifically enriching and economically beneficial. As more tourists seek out immersive and educational travel experiences, Saudi Arabia’s geological sites could become key destinations on the world tourism map.
