Saudi Arabia’s Al-Wahbah Crater has recently been recognized as one of the world’s top 100 geological heritage sites for 2024, according to the International Union of Geological Sciences and UNESCO. This honor underscores the crater’s remarkable geological significance not only within the Kingdom but also on a global scale.

Al-Wahbah Crater, alternatively referred to as Maqla Tamiyyah, is classified as a maar crater, a volcanic formation resulting from a phreatic eruption—an explosion triggered by the interaction of magma with groundwater. Situated in the Harrat Kishb basaltic plateau, approximately 270 kilometers northeast of Jeddah, the crater is notable for its grand scale and stunning beauty.

Dating back approximately 1.1 million years, the crater spans about 2.3 kilometers in diameter and reaches a depth of 250 meters, marking it as the largest and deepest volcanic crater in Saudi Arabia. Its dimensions are considerably larger than those of typical volcanic craters and boast a shallow salt lake formed by accumulated rainwater.

The crater is part of a broader volcanic field encompassing 175 volcanic cones, which traces its origins back millions of years and covers an expanse of around 6,000 square kilometers, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency. Geologists emphasize that sites such as Al-Wahbah Crater provide invaluable insights into Earth’s geological history and processes. Abdulaziz bin Laboun, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Geologists Cooperative, indicated that increasing public awareness of such natural landmarks is integral to advancing geological research.

Tariq Aba Al-Khail, spokesperson for the Saudi Geological Survey, noted the implications of the international recognition: “The acknowledgment of Al-Wahbah Crater as one of the top geological heritage sites is anticipated to elevate its profile as a premier destination for scientific inquiry and tourism. This distinction highlights its extraordinary geological features and affirms its significance on both local and global levels.”

Selected from a pool of 174 nominated sites across 64 countries—including the United States, Italy, Canada, New Zealand, China, Iceland, Egypt, and Finland—Al-Wahbah Crater’s selection underscores its unique standing. The crater’s floor is characterized by deposits of white sodium phosphate crystals, and while initial beliefs attributed its circular shape to a meteorite impact, contemporary geological consensus recognizes it as a maar crater.

Chairman Abdulaziz bin Laboun further elaborated on the importance of highlighting natural phenomena through media engagement to bolster their visibility in the scientific community. In his words: “This recognition not only underscores the crater’s significance but also supports the broader development of geological sciences in Saudi Arabia.”

Remarkable geological features define Al-Wahbah Crater, including its notable depth, which cements its status as the most profound crater within the Kingdom. The vicinity surrounding the crater also encompasses natural springs, palm groves, and trees, which accentuate the area’s geological distinctiveness. The volcanic field that engulfs it is part of a network of at least 23 volcanic fields formed millennia ago, collectively spanning approximately 90,000 square kilometers or about 5 percent of Saudi Arabia.

The unique formation of Al-Wahbah Crater within an aquatic environment, a signature of maar craters, sets it apart from other volcanic sites. Furthermore, the crater is intertwined with local folklore, boasting enchanting tales, including one regarding a lover named Tamia, who, according to tradition, is said to have flown from the crater to Qattan Mountain in Najd.

In conclusion, geological landmarks like Al-Wahbah Crater are not only essential for understanding Earth’s history but also foster public awareness that bolsters geological research. Its recent recognition serves to advance both scientific exploration and tourism opportunities in Saudi Arabia, marking a commendable achievement for the nation and its dedication to preserving geological heritage.

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