Abu Galum Protectorate

"There is not an animal that lives on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings,

but forms part of communities like you. Nothing have we omitted from the Book,

and they all shall be gathered to their Lord in the end."

Quran 06:38

The small wadi's run down from the granite coastal mountains, where the Nubian Ibex (Capra Nubiana) can be found on virtually inaccessible peaks, to plunge into the blue waters of the Gulf of Aqaba where the coral reefs are still in pristine condition but divers are forbidden to enter the underwater caves as they are unstable and deadly.

Within its many channels harbours a surprising abundance of 165 plant species like medicinal plants such as 'Batheran' (Artemisia Judaica) which is used for abdominal colic.

Ras Abu Galum Protected Area was established in 1992 for the protection of coral reefs and mangroves.

It is located north of the Nabq Protectorate Area, along the Gulf of Aqaba stretching up to Dahab and Nuweiba covering an area of 400 km².

This is a narrow coastal plain with high coastal mountains and this area plays an important role in regulating land use.

Wildlife includes the Hyrax, the Rupell's Fox and the Striped Hyena, though visitors are more likely to encounter ten species of lizards and snakes (of which 3 are highly dangerous namely the Black Cobra, the Horned Viper and the Burton Carpet Viper).

! Visitors should avoid sandy areas with vegetation and should always use a local Bedouin guide when visiting the area.