Which Saudi Mountain is Among the First 100 IUGS Geological Heritage Sites?

Riyadh, December 05, 2025, SPA -- Jabal Qidr, located in the Harrat Khaybar volcanic field north of Madinah Region, is recognized as one of the First 100 IUGS Geological Heritage Sites by the International Union of Geological Sciences, due to its scientific, aesthetic, and cultural value.
According to the Saudi Geological Survey, the mountain represents a unique site characterized by its recent volcanic activity—its last eruption occurred about a thousand years ago—and a clearly defined volcanic cone rising to 400 meters. This activity resulted in massive flows of basaltic lava and volcanic material, creating a stunning geomorphological landscape.
A unique feature of the site is the interplay between geology and heritage: the volcanic flows have covered massive archaeological stone structures known as "desert kites," likely dating back around 5,000 years (Bronze Age). This duality makes Jabal Qidr an important destination for geological researchers and a promising site for developing geotourism in the Kingdom.
-- SPA


