Climate

• The Red Sea is located in one of the hottest regions on the planet. Rainfall is sparse, averaging 4.3 inches per year, mostly in the form of brief showers.
  
  

Evaporation

• The arid conditions speed evaporation of the Red Sea and, with the limited rainfall and lack of a major river supplying fresh water, this increases the salt content of the sea. Salinity levels have been recorded as high as 3.8 percent.
  
  

Water Renewal

• The water in the Red Sea is replenished by the ocean, but it is a slow process. It can take up to six years to renew surface waters and up to 200 years to renew the entire Red Sea.
  
  

Clear Water

• Due to the high salt content, there is a low concentration of microalgae. This makes the waters of the Red Sea very clear. Average range of visibility is about 650 feet.
  
  

Tropical Life

• The warm waters are home to sea grass beds, mangrove forests and coral reefs which are found along the central and north coasts. Salt marshes and salt pans dot the area. Marine life includes dolphins, dugongs, sea turtles and assorted fish ranging from large groupers to the colorful clown fish.
  
  

Buoyancy

• The Red Sea is a vital shipping link in the Middle East. Since salt water is denser than fresh water, it is more buoyant. This means that ships float higher and therefore can take on more cargo in each shipment without fear of being overloaded.