Socotra: The Unique Island in the Arabian Sea

Socotra: The Unique Island in the Arabian Sea

Socotra is an isolated island in the Arabian Sea, part of the Socotra Archipelago (Yemen). It lies ~240 miles (386 km) east of the Horn of Africa (Somalia) and 380 km south of the Arabian Peninsula.

Unique Biodiversity

• 37% of plant species endemic (found nowhere else), including the iconic Dragon's Blood Tree (Dracaena cinnabari) and Cucumber Tree (Dendrosicyos socotranus).
• 90% of reptiles and 95% of land snails endemic.
• Unique birds (Socotra starling, sunbird, warbler).

Conservation Status

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site (2008) for its outstanding universal value. Often called the "Galápagos of the Indian Ocean." The island faces threats from development, climate change, and invasive species.