Itbay

[1] The Red Sea Hills are composed of the exposed Neoproterozoic volcano-sedimentary rock of the Arabian-Nubian Shield.

The Oligocene uplift caused the rejuvenation of their streams and the increased erosion removed most of the limestone and sandstone to expose the basement layer.

[6] The Red Sea Hills are a source of porphyry, which was being mined as early as the fourth millennium BC.

[7] The Red Sea Hills are inhabited by the Beja people who speak a Cushitic language and practice pastoralism.

They mainly live near the dry riverbeds, wādīs, that flow seasonally into the sea and the Nile, where there is limited vegetation.

Red Sea Hills in Egypt
Closer view of the arid, rocky Red Sea Hills