Saudi Arabia Red Sea Climate & Environment

Saudi Arabia is bordered by Oman, Yemen, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Kuwait and Jordan. Most of Saudi Arabia's 2.2 million square kilometers is desert. Approximately half of the country is covered by the largest sand desert in the world, the Rub' al-Khali meaning Empty Quarter in Arabic. The Western part of Saudi Arabia is dominated by a long mountain chain running the entire length of the country.

With the immense amount of deserts in the country, there is not a lot of flora and fauna. Saudi Arabia has a number of shrub species and tamarinds. Evergreens grow in the forested regions of Asir National Park. Camels are the most visible wildlife along with hedgehogs and sand cats in some areas, and Hamadryas baboons in Asir National Park.

From snow to sandstorms, the varied terrain around the Red Sea can take you from sea level through deserts to high mountains. In some countries, the temperatures can change drastically from season to season or even overnight.



Every country has its own delicate eco-system. So be responsible while you are appreciating the beauty. If you are in the desert, the rule is v Pack it in, Pack it out. If you are in a protected park, stick to the trail. Wandering away can cause unforeseen damage to the delicate plant and animal life. Be conscious of things like water consumption, proper waste disposal, and turning off air-conditioning units when away from your room. Water is a precious commodity in the desert regions.

In the Red Sea, do not feed the fish, do not collect or remove any material either living or dead, and do not touch the coral reef with any part of your body including your fins! Thanks to a growing number of dedicated environmental agencies, there is a greater knowledge of Reef Protection awareness. For example, boats can no longer anchor to the coral.