Geoheritage and Geodiversity of Cenozoic Volcanic Fields in Saudi Arabia : Challenges of Geoconservation and Geotourism in a Changing Environment

Saudi Arabia hosts at least six major volcanic fields located on the western margin of the Arabian Peninsula. The volcanic surface covered is comparable to about a fifth of the land surface of the country and the distinct appearance of the volcanic landscape of the region is deeply engraved in the geo-cultural perspective of the territory. Volcanic fields, especially their extensive lava fields form one of the largest if not the largest volcanic region on Earth, which are occupied by the most common volcanic landforms not only on Earth but the known Solar System. Volcanic fields are a vital part of the geoheritage and geodiversity elements of the Arabian Peninsula and beyond in the Middle East. Here we provide the most up-to-date overview of the geoheritage and geoheritage elements of these huge volcanic provinces both qualitative and quantitative outlines of their geodiversity and link to biodiversity. The volcanic province will be treated from the ecosystem, and geosystem services perspective and explore the challenges of such a concept in a region that is primarily industry and resource-based economy driven. This book will look beyond the traditional approach of describing geoheritage of volcanic regions as it will provide a conceptual framework for dispersed volcanic fields where scale and scope to define and estimate the value of geoheritage requires different approaches than those applied for long-lived polygenetic volcanoes. This book aims to provide a succinct overview of geoheritage and geodiversity aspects of monogenetic volcanic fields tested in an area globally outstanding and volcanically active. The book intends to be a good specialist handbook for a broad range of audiences from geologists, volcanologists, natural hazard experts, geoconservation experts, social geology experts, geotourism operators, and heritage researchers. The book will be a valuable resource for anyone directly or indirectly involved or wish to be involved in local development projects or experts looking for external information to apply to volcanic fields elsewhere.