The Island of Socotra or Saqatri, found off the coast of Yemen, has begun welcoming visitors with the aim of enhancing economic, social, and environmental development.
Located between the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, the Socotra archipelago is known for its unique landscapes and beaches, and is made up of rare biodiversity, up to 90 per cent of which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
In 2003, the Island was designated as a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve.
Meanwhile, in 2007, its Detwah Lagoon was designated a ‘Ramsar Site’, and in 2008, Socotra officially became a Natural World Heritage site.
It is also home to the iconic ‘Dragon Blood Tree,’ said to take thousands of years to grow and contains a healing resin sustainably harvested by the locals to protect the trees.
Visitors, it was shared, have been able to visit the Island via trusted travel agents, and early next year, there will be at least two flights leaving Abu Dhabi.
Launched by locals for the locals, “Trip to Socotra” is a 100 per cent national company that seeks to improve the quality of life for the people of the Island and protect and preserve its natural resources, environment, and culture.
It shared that it ensures locals benefit from the influx of visitors.
A verified agent, the company provides all tourism solutions, such as ticket purchases, corporate retreats, and visa issuance, and provides trusted local guides.
The company, conceptualised by Ali Adnan Al Bidh, will also invest profits and start a special investment fund called the ‘Soqotri Private Fund’ for various projects on the Island.
Ali Adnan Al Bidh commented: “The fund will focus on specific sectors such as improving existing academic institutions, planning to establish more schools, universities, and dedicated scientific research and development centers, emphasizing biodiversity studies.”