Socotra is a jewel of an island in the Arabian Sea, located between Yemen and Somalia. Politically, the island belongs to Yemen. Due to its isolation, it is home to a multitude of endemic animals and plants. Socotra is often referred to as the "Galapagos of Arabia." In 2008, the archipelago was designated a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. The island is also home to the Dragon Blood Tree. With its perfectly shaped, umbrella-like crowns, it is visible from afar and dominates the appearance of the central highlands.