The International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) has officially recognized volcanic basalt from Saudi Arabia’s harrats—extensive lava fields in the western region—as an internationally designated heritage stone. This marks the first time a stone from the Kingdom has been granted such status, according to the Saudi Geological Survey (SGS).
The decision follows extensive scientific work documenting basalt’s geological, historical, and cultural significance. Basalt has played a critical role in shaping the natural landscape and cultural identity of western Saudi Arabia for thousands of years, featuring prominently in traditional construction methods, settlement development, and local economic activities.
Saudi harrats are formed through repeated basaltic lava eruptions, where molten lava spread across the ground and solidified into hard, dark rock formations that now define the rugged scenery of parts of western Saudi Arabia. The basalt’s durability, heat resistance, and erosion resistance have long made it a valuable source of aggregates for infrastructure projects. More recently, the material has found new applications, including in fibers, composite materials, and insulation.
The SGS highlighted that the commercial viability of certain basalt quarries is enhanced by their proximity to existing road and rail networks, facilitating efficient transportation and reducing construction and maintenance costs.
The IUGS recognition serves as international acknowledgment of Saudi Arabia’s geological heritage and aligns with the country’s broader objectives under Saudi Vision 2030. This includes promoting the protection of geological and natural heritage sites, fostering scientific research, and enhancing the profile of national geological resources.
The survey also noted that the designation is expected to expand opportunities for international scientific collaboration and reinforce Saudi Arabia’s contributions to global initiatives aimed at conserving geological heritage. It emphasizes the Kingdom’s role in researching and preserving its geological wealth for future generations.
Established in 1961, the IUGS is among the largest non-governmental scientific organizations worldwide and operates as a member of the International Council of Scientific Unions. It aims to advance geological science, promote cooperation across disciplines, and address issues of global geological importance.
The Global Heritage Stone Resource designation introduced by IUGS recognizes natural stones that have played a documented role in significant architectural and monumental works, underscoring their cultural and historical value. The inclusion of Saudi basalt highlights its importance beyond geological perspectives, acknowledging its influence on human heritage.