Saudi Arabia has opened 150 caves for scientific research, a move that experts describe as a leap in exploring and documenting the Kingdom's geological and natural heritage.
"These caves and geological features are rare natural treasures," said geological expert Mahmoud Al-Shanti, as reported by Sabq.
The Saudi Geological Survey Authority (SGSA) indicated that there are more than 150 caves in Saudi Arabia that carry scientific value. Opening these caves for scientific research will contribute to expanding knowledge about the natural history of the region.
"The step is a qualitative leap in the exploration and documentation of Saudi Arabia's geological and natural heritage," stated Al-Shanti. He emphasized that these caves form a pillar to support scientific research and will enhance national efforts in documenting the geological heritage of Saudi Arabia, aligning with the national strategy of the SGSA to discover and study these sites.
Al-Shanti explained that there are two main types of caves in Saudi Arabia: basaltic caves and limestone caves. The basaltic caves are concentrated in the western part of the Kingdom within volcanic areas and are known as basaltic tunnels. Limestone caves, formed from ancient marine sedimentation, are spread in the northern, eastern, and central regions, while sandstone caves are found across regions of the country.
"The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is an open geological museum due to its unique natural and geological diversity on a global level," noted Al-Shanti. He indicated that caves are among the geological landmarks that Saudi Arabia hosts, spreading across regions of the Kingdom from north to south and from east to west. "These caves were formed over millions of years," he said.
A team from the SGSA managed to discover a large number of caves, and exploration work is still ongoing at an accelerated pace. The official spokesman for the SGSA, Tariq bin Ali Aba Al-Khail, explained that the authority allows researchers and specialists in the fields of Earth sciences, archaeology, and paleobiology to benefit from these caves and sites. He pointed out the authority's commitment to its reference role in providing accurate geological data.
Studies conducted by the SGSA reveal scientific evidence reflecting the environmental transformations that the region underwent over thousands of years. Researchers and specialists are encouraged to conduct in-depth studies within an organized scientific approach.
Currently, the focus is on investing in caves that possess promising scientific or economic potential, aiming to ensure achieving the maximum possible benefit from these caves. These studies also uncover plant and animal remains, some of which became extinct due to natural changes.
Preliminary indicators suggest the existence of caves exceeding four kilometers in length beneath the Earth's surface, with details about these caves expected to be announced later as part of a series of scientific discoveries. The SGSA believes in the role of these resources in enhancing the scientific and tourism status of the Kingdom at the regional and international levels.
The article was written with the assistance of a news analysis system.