[1] In 2002, a 640 km2 area demarcated by the ‘Ring Dykke’ within the Protectorate core was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
World Heritage status brings higher protection and international oversight but entails a more intensive management effort and full cooperation from local and national authorities.
Meanwhile, it is common for snow mountain peaks to be visible during winter with temperatures ranging between averages of 10–16 °C during midday.
Visitors are advised to wear appropriate warm clothing if they are climbing the touristic, historic Mount Sinai at night, particularly during winter.
This arid, mountain ecosystem supports biodiversity, including a high proportion of plant endemics.
Around 472 plant species are found at Saint Katherine Protectorate,[1] out of which 115 are of medicinal importance and 19 are endemic to Egypt.