Coral reefs are more than just a breathtaking landscape along the Red Sea; they are one of the most important marine ecosystems, playing a crucial role in supporting marine life and ensuring a suitable environment for many marine organisms.

1. Biodiversity

Coral reefs are among the richest marine ecosystems in terms of biodiversity, providing habitats for nearly 25% of all marine fish species.

2. Coastal Protection

Coral reefs act as natural buffers against waves, helping to protect shorelines from erosion and flooding.

3. Tourism

Coral reefs are a major tourist attraction in Saudi Arabia, drawing divers and environmental enthusiasts from around the world.

Vision 2030 and Environmental Sustainability

The Kingdom's Vision 2030 has given great attention to environmental sustainability through one of its objectives, which is to ensure the achievement of environmental sustainability. This is based on several main axes:

1. Reduce all types of pollution (e.g. air, sound, water, soil)
2. Safeguard the environment from natural threats
3. Protect & rehabilitate natural landscapes

The Kingdom and Coral Reef Protection

The Kingdom has given great attention to coral reefs and has worked to protect them and restore environmental balance through several promising projects and targets:

G20

As the President of the G20 in 2020, Saudi Arabia called for a cooperative process to enhance the group's role in protecting coral reefs.

Red Sea Project

One of the major tourism projects that includes coral reef protection as part of its vision to preserve the unique marine ecosystem of the Red Sea.

Saudi Green Initiative

Launched as part of Saudi Vision 2030, the Saudi Green Initiative focuses on expanding green spaces and taking care of marine environments, including the protection of coral reefs.

Marine Reserves

The Kingdom is establishing several marine reserves to protect the marine environment, including coral reefs. One of the most prominent is the "Farasan Islands Reserve," one of the largest marine reserves in the Kingdom.

The General Authority for the Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea (Shams)

The General Authority for the Protection of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea is a Saudi governmental entity established by cabinet resolution aimed at protecting and managing coral reefs, turtles, and their nesting sites, as well as rehabilitating damaged reefs.

Challenges Threatening Coral Reefs

1. Climate Change: Rising ocean temperatures cause coral bleaching turning them white and leaving them vulnerable to disease and death
2. Ocean Acidification: Increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere lead to higher levels of acidity in the oceans, which can hinder the ability of corals to build their skeletons
3. Pollution: Runoff from agricultural areas, coastal development, and marine debris can introduce harmful chemicals and waste into coral reef ecosystems
4. Overfishing: Removal of key species from coral reef ecosystems can disrupt the delicate balance 4 and lead to cascading effects
5. Physical Damage: Activities such as destructive fishing practices, anchor damage, and coastal development can physically harm coral reefs

Coral Reef Rehabilitation: Diverse Strategies and Techniques

1. Direct Transplantation: Transplanting coral colonies or fragments without an intermediate nursery phase. Success rate: 64%.
2. Coral Gardening: Transplanting coral colonies or fragments with an intermediate nursery phase. Success rate: 64%.
3. Substrate Addition (Artificial Reef): Adding artificial structures for coral reef restoration. Success rate: 68%.
4. Electro-deposition: Adding artificial structures connected to an electrical current to accelerate mineral accretion.
5. Green Engineering: Adding artificial structures designed to mimic natural processes and be integrated into reef landscapes.
6. Substrate Manipulation: Manipulating reef substrates to facilitate recovery processes.
7. Substrate Stabilization: Stabilizing substratum or removing unconsolidated rubble. Success rate: 77%.
8. Algae Removal: Removing macroalgae to facilitate coral recruitment or recovery.
9. Larval Propagation: Releasing coral larvae at a restoration site after an intermediate collection and holding phase.
10. Deployment of Inoculated Substrate: Deploying settlement substrates that have been inoculated with coral larvae.
11. Larval Release: Releasing larvae directly at a restoration site.

Initiatives for Coral Reef Protection in Saudi Arabia

CORDAP

Saudi Arabia has established the CORDAP Foundation to support efforts to develop the science and technology required to conserve and restore coral reefs worldwide.

KAUST & NEOM

The KAUST Reefscape Restoration Initiative at Shushah Island is one of the world's first large-scale coral reef restoration projects, administered and funded by KAUST in partnership with NEOM.

Aramco

Saudi Aramco has deployed approximately 1,000 tons of artificial reefs throughout the Arabian Gulf to help rebuild marine ecosystems, while also supporting the local fisheries industry.

Egis

Egis has been appointed by KAUST to provide Project and Construction Management Consultancy services. Egis will play a pivotal role in the construction of the two main facilities: the Primary Coral Nursery and the Development Coral Nursery in the Reefscape Restoration Initiative.

Conclusion

Coral reefs in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia represent a vital part of the natural heritage due to the environmental and economic benefits they provide. Preserving these ecosystems requires comprehensive efforts, including effective policies, community awareness, and scientific research. It is essential for everyone, from the government to individuals, to work towards protecting these valuable assets to ensure their preservation for future generations.