Saudi archipelago Farasan in bid to enter UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere list

Farasan, an archipelago in the Red Sea comprising more than 200 islands made of coral reefs and rich wildlife, is making a bid to enter UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) list. The Kingdom is set to complete all procedures for its bid to have the Farasan Islands Reserve, the first Saudi natural reserve, registered on the UNESCO’s MAB list by the end of next month.

Farasan is characterised by a unique marine lifestyle. Most of the inhabitants live on the islands, while some travel between the islands on boats. Each island contains historic and heritage sites dating back to ancient periods.

With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, Farasan islands reserve, covering an estimated area of 1,050 square kilometres, is strategically located in the far southwestern part of Saudi Arabia. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Kingdom.

Located about 40km offshore from the southern region of Jazan, Farasan is a cultural and tourist treasure consisting of virgin islands with unspoilt beaches, serene blue waters and rich marine fauna nesting as a hidden gem in a strategic location near the Bab Al Mandab Strait

The islands reserve is home to many historical palaces and heritage sites that were once stop for cruise ships as well as for commercial and warships, in addition to its annual fishing festival that dates back several decades, but was halted this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Capitalizing on its unique natural elements and rich biodiversity, the Saudi government rolled out a comprehensive plan to develop these islands and preserve them. “We are working on submitting the bid to have the wonderful Farasan Islands Reserve registered on the UNESCO’s MAB list. Our country is precious with its natural and cultural diversity,” Prince Badr Bin Farhan, Minister of Culture and board chairman of the Saudi Heritage Preservation Society, wrote on his Twitter account.

The islands reserve is home to many historical palaces and heritage sites that were once stop for cruise ships as well as for commercial and warships