UNESCO delegation visits North Riyadh Geopark to celebrate its inclusion in Global Geoparks Network
RIYADH — An official delegation from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), led by Assistant Director General for Natural Sciences Dr. Lidia Brito, conducted a field visit to the North Riyadh Geopark to mark its inclusion in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network — the first achievement of its kind in the Middle East and the Arab world. Director of the Saudi Geopark Initiative Eng. Hussam Al-Turki, along with a select group of officials and experts joined the UNESCO delegation in the tour. The delegation explored the site's unique geolandmarks, reviewed development plans and administrative facilities, and visited key formations such as Abu Shaddad Cave — home to some of the region's most remarkable geological features — and the 'Edge of the World' escarpment, renowned for its breathtaking vistas and rock layers that chronicle geological epochs spanning millions of years. Dr. Brito expressed her delight at the North Riyadh Geopark's inclusion in the UNESCO Network, calling it a remarkable accomplishment that reflects the Kingdom's rich natural and cultural diversity. She emphasized the importance of leveraging this international recognition to advance Saudi Arabia's goals for ecotourism and educational outreach. The visit concluded with an interactive session in Ghamrah Village that showcased the site's landscapes and local heritage. Earlier, UNESCO officially welcomed both the North Riyadh Geopark and the Salma Geopark into its Global Geoparks Network, an initiative that underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to preserving its geoheritage and promoting sustainable development. Saudi Arabia aspires to have 13 sites inscribed on the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. The National Center for Vegetation Cover (NCVC) is working to develop and protect these sites as well as to promote environmental conservation, biodiversity, and nature-based tourism.
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