Faya Nomination Underlines Sharjah’s Dedication To Preserving Cultural Heritage

The Faya Palaeolandscape, a site with over 200,000 years of history, is under consideration for UNESCO World Heritage status. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the official ambassador for this nomination, highlighted the significance of this decision by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. The approval of the site's boundaries reflects a commitment to preserving humanity's heritage and cultural treasures for future generations.

Sheikha Bodour stated, "The decision by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to approve the boundaries of the Faya site nominated for inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List, embodies his far-sighted vision and profound commitment to protecting humanity’s heritage and safeguarding its treasures for future generations."

Sheikha Bodour emphasised that Sharjah is dedicated to ensuring Faya receives deserved recognition on the UNESCO list. This site is not just significant to UAE history; it also holds evidence of early human migration routes. It represents a unique chapter in human evolution and adaptability. The preservation efforts are part of a broader commitment to safeguarding identity and enriching our understanding of humanity.

"This site, whose history has been intertwined with that of humankind for more than 200,000 years, not only reinforces Sharjah’s position as a global centre of knowledge and culture but also reflects our steadfast belief that heritage is a bridge connecting the past to the present, granting communities a renewed identity and a living memory," she added.

Sheikha Bodour stressed that protecting Faya is a shared responsibility with the international community. The aim is to deepen global understanding of this site while preserving its historical significance. She noted that safeguarding heritage equates to preserving identity and enhancing collective knowledge about human history.

"We are working with utmost dedication and determination to ensure that the Faya site receives the recognition it truly deserves on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This place is not merely a testament to the history of the UAE alone; it stands as witness to the history of all humanity," she said.

The ongoing efforts in Sharjah reflect a serious commitment to cultural preservation. By embracing this responsibility passionately, they aim to protect heritage sites like Faya for future generations while reinforcing their role as partners in global heritage conservation.

With inputs from WAM