The North Riyadh Geopark, overseen by the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC), recently welcomed a delegation from the Geological Operations Department at Saudi Aramco. The visit comes after the park’s successful nomination for inclusion in UNESCO’s Global Geoparks Network, as approved by the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council.
The visit focused on exploring innovative approaches to the Geological Heritage Documentation and Preservation Project in Saudi Arabia. Discussions also covered future collaboration opportunities and the importance of stratigraphic sequences across geological eras, which are key to understanding the Kingdom’s natural environmental evolution.
This visit is part of broader national efforts to safeguard 268 scientifically significant geo sites across Saudi Arabia. These sites stand out for their unique geo formations, including ancient rock structures and fossil remains that narrate the Earth's history. The initiative aims to raise geological awareness, advance scientific research, and boost eco-tourism, showcasing these remarkable sites on both local and international levels.
Geoparks present a unique opportunity for Saudi Arabia to showcase a pioneering model of sustainable natural resource management. By integrating eco-tourism with local development, they create employment opportunities, engage local communities, and promote economic growth. This sustainable model relies on collaboration between government entities, the private sector, and non-profit organizations, accelerating progress toward national and global sustainable development goals.
The NCVC continues to lead efforts in developing, protecting, and rehabilitating green spaces across the Kingdom. The NCVC also plays a critical role in monitoring vegetation cover violations, combating illegal logging, and managing rangelands, forests, national parks, and geological parks. These efforts support sustainable development and contribute significantly to achieving the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative.
