Farasan Islands showcase the region’s marine biodiversity, protected habitats and eco-tourism opportunities.
Jazan Region in south-western Saudi Arabia offers a diverse range of coastal and marine attractions along the southern Red Sea, including sandy beaches, coral islands, waterfronts and protected natural habitats. These resources provide opportunities for sustainable marine and eco-tourism, with the Farasan Islands serving as the region’s principal ecological destination.
In Jizan city, the northern and southern corniches are among the main recreational waterfronts, featuring landscaped walkways, rest areas and panoramic views of the Red Sea. Further along the regional coastline, beaches in Al-Shaqiq, Baish and Al-Sahi waterfront provide additional destinations for residents and visitors seeking coastal recreation.
Located approximately 50 kilometres off the mainland, the Farasan Islands archipelago is a key attraction within Jazan’s marine tourism landscape. The marine protected area covers 5,657 square kilometres and encompasses more than 266 coral islands. Its natural environment includes coral reefs, seagrass meadows and extensive mangrove forests, which provide important feeding and breeding habitats for marine and coastal wildlife.
The archipelago is also home to diverse marine species, migratory seabirds and the endangered Farasan gazelle. Its environmental importance has received international recognition through several conservation designations. In 2021, the islands were designated a UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Reserve. They were subsequently registered as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2025 and added to the IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas in 2026. These recognitions reflect the area’s conservation standards, governance and community engagement.
The region’s coastal and ecological attractions support various tourism activities, including island excursions, birdwatching, diving and marine exploration. These experiences offer visitors opportunities to explore the Red Sea’s natural environment while engaging with the region’s coastal landscapes.
Maintaining the ecological value of Jazan’s marine destinations requires continued habitat protection, regular environmental monitoring and responsible tourism practices. These measures remain essential to conserving the Farasan Islands’ biodiversity and supporting the long-term development of sustainable tourism along Saudi Arabia’s southern Red Sea coastline.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
