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♦ Farasan Islands
Summary Assessment Notes
Scenic and landscape : Exceptional coastal and marine landscapes.
Wildlife : Marine life readily viewed using only basic equipment;
seabirds relatively abundant, and high probability of
viewing gazelles. Nesting turtles could also be an
attraction.
Cultural/historical : Pearling and artisanal fishing still practised, offering
glimpse of traditional lifestyles.
Existing facilities : Settlement areas provide adequate accommodation
and other facilities, although dedicated structures may
be required if tourist volume is to expand.
Location and access : Readily accessible via daily ferry from Jizan; which
may be an added attraction.
Sensitivity / security : Safe for visitors, and most sites relatively resilient to
responsible tourism, although key areas such as coral
reefs and nesting sites for birds and turtles would
require careful regulation of human activities.
Potential activities : Diving, swimming, fishing, guided tours, camp and
picnic sites, development of a visitor center, tours to
view gazelles, seabirds and nesting turtles.
Rating
1 = highly suitable for tourism; 2 = moderately suitable for tourism; 3 = unsuitable for
tourism at the present time, or with specialised or limited public appeal or capacity only;
4 = unsuitable for tourism in the foreseeable future.
Scenery : 1
Wildlife : 1
Cultural/historical : 2
Facilities : 2
Access : 2
Sensitivity : 2
Summed Ratings = 9
Ranking 1=/12
Category Group 1: High priority for tourism development.
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