UNESCO Designates North Riyadh and Salma Geoparks as Global Geoparks, Marking Saudi Arabia’s New Milestone in Sustainability and Heritage Preservation

Photography: Courtesy of SPA.

Riyadh, April 18, 2025 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has officially added the North Riyadh Geopark and Salma Geopark to its Global Geoparks Network, recognizing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to geoheritage conservation and sustainable development.

This landmark designation, announced this week, underscores the Kingdom’s growing role in protecting geological and cultural heritage while advancing its Vision 2030 goals. UNESCO’s inclusion of these sites follows a rigorous evaluation process focused on environmental stewardship, public education, and local community involvement.

Courtesy: Category of SPA.

Khaled Al-Abdulkader, CEO of the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC), welcomed the announcement as a national achievement that reflects the leadership’s unwavering support for sustainability and environmental protection.

“This recognition by UNESCO is a testament to our efforts to conserve Saudi Arabia’s natural landscapes and to promote their global significance,” Al-Abdulkader said, adding that the designation aligns with Vision 2030’s emphasis on ecological balance and public engagement.

Hussam Al-Turki, Senior Director of the Saudi Geoparks Initiative, described the UNESCO inclusion as a proud moment for the Kingdom. “This milestone reinforces our commitment to safeguarding the Kingdom’s natural identity and strengthens our position as a global leader in geoheritage preservation,” he noted.

With this new recognition, the North Riyadh and Salma Geoparks are expected to become leading destinations for both domestic and international visitors, offering educational and immersive experiences in geotourism. These parks will contribute to economic diversification by promoting local tourism, creating jobs, and encouraging environmentally responsible practices.

The initiative represents a joint effort by governmental institutions, the private sector, and non-profit organizations to ensure that geodiversity conservation contributes meaningfully to sustainable development in the Kingdom and beyond.