Saudi Arabia’s Al-Wahbah Crater Ranks Among World’s Top Geological Wonders

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Al-Wahbah Crater has earned recognition as one of the world’s top 100 geological heritage sites for 2024. This honor comes from the International Union of Geological Sciences and UNESCO. It highlights the crater’s extraordinary significance both within the Kingdom and globally.

Understanding Al-Wahbah Crater

Al-Wahbah Crater, also known as Maqla Tamiyyah, is a maar crater. This type of volcanic site forms from a phreatic eruption, which occurs when magma interacts violently with groundwater. Located in the Harrat Kishb basaltic plateau, Al-Wahbah Crater lies about 270 km northeast of Jeddah. Its immense scale and beauty make it a standout geological feature.

Formed approximately 1.1 million years ago, the crater measures about 2.3 km in diameter and 250 meters in depth. This makes it the largest and deepest volcanic crater in Saudi Arabia. Its dimensions significantly exceed those of average volcanic craters. Additionally, a shallow salt lake has formed at the bottom due to rainwater accumulation.

Geological Significance

The crater is part of a larger volcanic field that includes 175 volcanic cones, dating back millions of years and covering about 6,000 sq. km. Geological sites like Al-Wahbah Crater provide valuable insights into the Earth’s history and processes. Highlighting such landmarks enhances public awareness and supports geological research.

Abdulaziz bin Laboun, Chairman of the Saudi Geologists Cooperative, emphasized the importance of this recognition. He stated, “Publicizing natural phenomena like the Al-Wahbah Crater through the media is essential for enhancing their global profile.”

Boosting Tourism and Research

Tariq Aba Al-Khail, spokesperson for the Saudi Geological Survey, noted the global significance of the crater. He said, “The recognition of Al-Wahbah Crater as one of the top 100 geological heritage sites will boost its profile as a prime destination for scientific study and tourism.” This distinction emphasizes its exceptional geological features and significance on both local and global scales.

The crater was selected from 174 nominated sites across 64 countries, including the US, Italy, Canada, New Zealand, China, Iceland, Egypt, and Finland. The bottom of Al-Wahbah Crater is covered with white sodium phosphate crystals. Initially, some believed the crater was formed by a meteorite due to its circular shape. However, geologists now widely agree that it is a maar crater.

Unique Features of Al-Wahbah Crater

Abdulaziz bin Laboun highlighted several unique aspects of the crater. He stated, “The crater’s geological features are remarkable, including its depth, which makes it the deepest crater in the Kingdom, and its diameter of 2,000 meters.” The surrounding area features natural springs, trees, and palm groves, making it a distinctive geological site.

Saudi Arabia has at least 23 volcanic fields formed millions of years ago, covering about 90,000 sq. km, or about 5 percent of the Kingdom. The eruptions in these fields vary, but Al-Wahbah Crater stands out due to its formation in an aquatic environment, a characteristic of maar craters.

Cultural Significance

The crater also holds cultural significance. It is often associated with local folklore, including tales of a lover named Tamia, who, according to legend, flew from this crater toward Qattan Mountain in Najd.

In conclusion, geological sites like Al-Wahbah Crater offer valuable insights into the Earth’s history and processes. By highlighting such landmarks, we enhance public awareness and support the advancement of geological research.