Socotra: Finally Gets UNESCO's Seal

One week ago, the Socotra Archipelago finally got UNESCO's recognition and seal of approval and is now on its World Heritage List; it becomes Yemen's fourth site on the List.

Dubbed as the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean, for its exceptional biodiversity of plants, animals and very diverse marine life - UNESCO's approval will, hopefully, help in protecting and conserving Yemen's greatest natural treasure and wonder.

Now under a much greater threat from developers and tourists than ever before, UNESCO's recognition couldn't have come at a better time for the very unique, fragile Island. An Island which is said to have been apart even before 250 million years ago when all the Planet’s major landmasses were joined; and for the millions of years of its standing apart, it has been gathering and collecting some of the most unusual living creatures and organisms. Both on land and in the sea. Thank you UNESCO and thanks to all those who have fought, and spoken up, for Socotra.

Read this brief article about Socotra from WWF

Map from: The University of Houston

Comments

nzm said…
That's awesome news!

Your blog was where I first learned about the Socotra Archipelago and now it's a place that I want to visit!
Anonymous said…
Amazingly - all these years not much was mentioned about Socotra and that's why very few people know of it; including even environmentalists and wildlife enthusiasts.
t said…
Wow fantastic.
You already know I love Yemen and can't wait to be back there. I've never seen Socotra or Aden, only lived in Sana'a.
Also sure that one day when I marry it'll be our honeymoon spot.
Barsawad said…
T - each part of Yemen has its own unique qualities. All superb! For your honeymoon, if you love the wild and very exotic - there is no better place for it than Socotra.
Anonymous said…
I was in Yemen last summer but for two weeks only I can’t wait to be back and this time I plan Insha’Allah to visit Socotra it great news that the it finally got UNESCO's recognition and seal of approval Yemen is always in the heart I can’t wait to go there once again brother omar thank you for what you do

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