White and Black: Unveiling the Secrets of Saudi Arabia’s Volcanic Giants

Harrat Khaybar, a major volcanic field in Saudi Arabia, showcases a diverse range of volcanoes and eruptions, reflecting millions of years of geological activity. The contrasting colors of lava and ash reveal the geologic origins of Harrat Khaybar’s volcanic cones.

While the Arabian Peninsula is known for its vast deserts of sand, the area also contains extensive fields of lava. At least 12 volcanic fields, known as harrats, are contained in the western half of the peninsula. One such field is the 14,000-square-kilometer (5,400-square-mile) Harrat Khaybar, one of the largest in Saudi Arabia.