NCW carries out study of marine biodiversity in Red Sea

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NCW will continue its studies and programs throughout the year and protect the marine and terrestrial biodiversity in the kingdom. (SPA)
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The study relied on an environmental sensitivity map to classify each area under water based on the vulnerability of the species and prioritizing areas with high sensitivity. (SPA)
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Updated 30 April 2025
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NCW carries out study of marine biodiversity in Red Sea

  • The research examined underwater habitats
  • Scientists used an environmental sensitivity map to classify different underwater areas

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Wildlife has conducted a study of marine biodiversity in the Red Sea.
The research examined underwater habitats, and was part of efforts to safeguard the Kingdom’s natural resources, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Scientists used an environmental sensitivity map to classify different underwater areas based on the vulnerability of the species found there, prioritizing areas with a high number of at-risk species.
Surveys were carried out on 64 locations along the coastline to investigate the health of the species in those regions.
Changes in water temperature were measured in 37 different spots, to monitor the impact that higher temperatures have on wildlife.
CEO of the NCW, Mohammed Qurban, said that the study aligned with the green development goals of Saudi Arabia, which promote environmental sustainability in the Kingdom.
He also talked about the significance of surveys and how they were a critical tool to detect signs of any changes to habitats, which allowed organizations to address any issues.
NCW said in a statement that it would continue a number of studies and programs throughout the year to protect the marine and terrestrial biodiversity in the Kingdom.
The Red Sea is home to an array of wildlife including whales, dolphins, hammerhead sharks and sea snakes.
This week, one of the largest coral colonies in the world was discovered in the Red Sea.
The massive Pavona coral colony is expected to become an environmentally friendly tourist attraction managed by Red Sea Global.
Earlier this month, marine scientists found creatures thriving in deep waters of the Red Sea under seemingly unfavorable conditions of low oxygen levels and high acidity.
The unusual ecosystem was found in Difat Farasan near the border between Saudi Arabia and Yemen.
The NCW is also leading initiatives to protect the dugong population in the Red Sea from further decline.
Efforts by the center include satellite tracking and scientific research to monitor its distribution in Saudi Arabia’s territorial waters.
Additionally, national plans are in place to manage and rehabilitate the species’ natural habitats, supporting long-term sustainability and the conditions necessary for dugong reproduction and survival.


King Salman Arabic academy launches ‘Ahlan Wa Sahlan’ digital learning platform

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King Salman Arabic academy launches ‘Ahlan Wa Sahlan’ digital learning platform

RIYADH: The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language has launched the “Ahlan Wa Sahlan” educational platform, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

The digital initiative aims to teach Arabic to both native and non-native speakers through a flexible, interactive learning experience, combining accredited academic content with modern technologies and supporting learners of different levels and goals.

Abdullah Al-Washmi, the academy’s secretary-general, said the platform marks a qualitative step in the digital development of Arabic language education and aligns with the academy’s mission to strengthen Arabic’s presence in modern learning environments.

He added that the project is part of a series of initiatives supported by Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan and reflects the leadership’s commitment to empowering Arabic locally and globally through trusted digital tools.

Al-Washmi said the platform offers advanced digital solutions for individuals and institutions, with programs designed to meet diverse learning needs and objectives.

It provides integrated language programs across five levels, from beginner to advanced, as well as specialized courses in professional fields such as administration, healthcare and sports.

Learners benefit from flexible self-learning options supported by standardized assessment tools and comprehensive tests, the SPA reported.

“Ahlan Wa Sahlan” features an interactive design with customized content for different learner groups, a multilingual interface supporting five languages and continuous technical support.

Educational institutions are also provided with advanced tools to manage content, organize learners and monitor performance through analytical reports, the SPA added.

The launch is part of the academy’s broader efforts to expand Arabic language education globally through innovative digital solutions, enhancing learning efficiency and strengthening Arabic’s presence in education, culture and digital communication.

The initiative also aligns with the Human Capability Development Program’s goals to build an advanced Arabic digital education ecosystem that combines academic quality with technological innovation.