Location and Area

Geographical Location: Situated in the northwestern coastal region of Egypt, between latitudes 28° and 29° N.

Area: The reserve covers an area of about 700 square kilometers.

Classification: Declared a natural reserve in 1986 and designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981.

Ecological Diversity

El-Omayed Reserve boasts a unique ecological diversity, including:

Sand Dunes: Features coastal sand dunes and inland silica dunes.

Marshes and Salt Flats: Contains marshes and salt flats that enhance biodiversity.

Shallow Lands and Rocky Slopes: Includes flat, shallow lands and rocky slopes.

Valleys and Depressions: Comprises fertile valleys and depressions.

Inland Plateau: An inland plateau covered with sedimentary formations from the Miocene and Holocene epochs, such as coastal deposits, sand dunes, and chalk formations.

Vegetation Cover

The reserve hosts around 170 species of wild plants, including:

Medicinal and Therapeutic Plants: Such as Urginea maritima (sea squill), Artemisia (wormwood), Plantago (plantain), Retama raetam (white broom), and Rumex (sorrel).

Plants Used for Fuel, Oils, and Soap: Approximately 60 species.

Ecologically Significant Plants: About 40 species that contribute to sand stabilization and soil formation.

Wildlife

The reserve is home to numerous wild animals, including:

Mammals: Gazelles, foxes, rabbits, jerboas, hedgehogs, and hyraxes.

Reptiles: Chameleons and scorpions.

Birds: Hosts 14 species of birds of prey.

Ecological Importance

El-Omayed Reserve is a vital ecological zone in Egypt, playing a key role in preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. It also serves as a model for human-nature coexistence, as it encompasses four villages with around 400 inhabitants, along with several tribes totaling approximately 5,500 people.