RIYADH: They may look dark and forbidding, but caves across various regions of Saudi Arabia are shedding new light on some of Earth’s oldest secrets.
According to the Saudi Geological Survey, caves and geological features in the Kingdom are unique natural treasures providing a vital foundation for scientific research.
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.
Tariq Aba Al-Khail, spokesperson for the Saudi Geological Survey, said that the organization enables researchers and specialists in geosciences, archaeology, and paleobiology to study these caves within a structured scientific framework.
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.
