Red sea

New research by KAUST scientists shows that the Red Sea dried up completely about 6.2 million years ago.
It remained dry for nearly 100,000 years, leaving behind vast salt deposits.
Later, a massive flood refilled the basin, restoring the sea.

What it is:
The Red Sea is a long, narrow saltwater inlet of the Indian Ocean, lying between northeastern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is among the world’s youngest seas, created by the rifting of the African and Arabian tectonic plates nearly 30 million years ago.

Location:
It stretches southeast for about 1,200 miles (1,930 km) from Suez in Egypt to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, where it connects with the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea. Bordering nations include Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen.

Key Features:

• Geology: Formed within a rift valley, part of the East African Rift System.

• Size: Covers ~450,000 sq km; maximum depth 3,040 m (9,974 ft).

• Climate: Among the saltiest and warmest seas due to high evaporation and scarce freshwater inflow.

• Biodiversity: Known for coral reefs, unique brine pools, and rich marine life.

• Volcanism: Contains underwater volcanoes and geothermal activity, reflecting ongoing tectonic shifts.

Significance:
The Red Sea is a critical maritime corridor, linking Europe and Asia through the Suez Canal and handling a major share of global shipping. It also supports the region’s economy through trade, fishing, and tourism.