Water Bodies and Location of Saudi Arabia
Water bodies are essential parts of the world’s geography. They provide habitats for different organisms, support various economic activities, and serve as transportation routes. Saudi Arabia, a country located in the Middle East, is surrounded by several bodies of water. In this article, we will discuss the two water bodies adjacent to Saudi Arabia, their features, characteristics, and significance to the country.
Overview of the Saudi Arabian Peninsula and Its Borders
Saudi Arabia is a desert country located in the Arabian Peninsula. The country is bordered by several countries, including Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Yemen. The country is also surrounded by two water bodies, the Red Sea on its western side and the Arabian Gulf on its eastern side.
The Western Water Body Adjacent to Saudi Arabia
The Red Sea is the water body adjacent to Saudi Arabia’s western side. The Red Sea is a seawater inlet located between the African and Arabian Peninsula. It is one of the world’s saltiest bodies of water with a salinity range of 36-41 parts per thousand. The Red Sea is an important water body for marine biodiversity, trade, and transportation.
The Eastern Water Body Adjacent to Saudi Arabia
The Arabian Gulf, also known as the Persian Gulf, is the water body adjacent to Saudi Arabia’s eastern side. It is located between the Arabian Peninsula and Iran. The Arabian Gulf is shallow and has a high salinity level, ranging from 35-45 parts per thousand. The water body is an essential source of oil and gas reserves, fishing, and transportation.
The Red Sea: Saudi Arabia’s Western Border
The Red Sea serves as Saudi Arabia’s western border, stretching over 2500 km from the Gulf of Aqaba to Bab al-Mandab. The Red Sea has a unique ecosystem that supports several marine species, including more than 1200 species of fish, 44 species of sharks, and several species of dolphins and whales. The water body also has several coral reefs and islands, including the Farasan Islands, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Arabian Gulf: Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Border
The Arabian Gulf is an important water body for Saudi Arabia, serving as its eastern border. The Gulf is a shallow water body with a maximum depth of 90 meters, and it is home to several fish species, including shrimps, crabs, and lobsters. The Gulf is also home to several oil and gas reserves, which are essential to Saudi Arabia’s economy.
Geographical Features and Characteristics of the Red Sea
The Red Sea is an elongated body of water that is over 2250 km long and 355 km wide at its maximum. The Red Sea has several unique features, including its high salinity level, which is due to the high evaporation rate and low rainfall in the region. The water body is also surrounded by desert terrain and has a warm climate.
Importance and Significance of the Red Sea for Saudi Arabia
The Red Sea is an essential water body for Saudi Arabia, supporting several economic activities, including fishing, trade, and tourism. The Red Sea is also crucial for the country’s strategic position in the region, as it connects the country to the Suez Canal, which is a vital trade route connecting Europe and Asia.
Geographical Features and Characteristics of the Arabian Gulf
The Arabian Gulf is a shallow water body that is approximately 1000 km long and 200 km wide at its maximum. The Gulf has a unique ecosystem that supports several marine species and is known for its oil and gas reserves. The Gulf has a high evaporation rate, which contributes to its high salinity level.
Importance and Significance of the Arabian Gulf for Saudi Arabia
The Arabian Gulf is an essential water body for Saudi Arabia, serving as a source of oil and gas reserves, which contribute to the country’s economy. The Gulf is also important for the country’s transportation and fishing activities.
Impact of Human Activities on the Two Water Bodies
Human activities, including oil and gas exploration, fishing, and transportation, have had significant impacts on the two water bodies. These activities have led to pollution, habitat destruction, and overfishing, which have threatened several marine species’ survival. The Saudi Arabian government has implemented several measures to regulate these activities and minimize their adverse effects on the water bodies.
Conclusion: The Significance of Knowing Saudi Arabia’s Adjacent Water Bodies
In conclusion, the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf are two essential water bodies adjacent to Saudi Arabia. These water bodies support several economic activities, including fishing, trade, and transportation, and are essential sources of oil and gas reserves. Understanding these water bodies’ features, characteristics, and significance is crucial for managing them sustainably and ensuring their conservation for future generations.
