AlUla World Archaeology Conference To Address Future Challenges Of Nomadic Societies

The Royal Commission for AlUla is organising a global archaeology conference on October 30-31. This event will explore the future of archaeology and the heritage of nomadic societies. It will alternate annually with the AlUla World Archaeology Summit. Researchers and cultural heritage experts from across the globe will gather at Maraya, a mirrored venue in AlUla, to participate in presentations, dialogues, workshops, and case studies.

The conference aims to emphasise the significant role mobility has played throughout history. Since prehistoric times, mobility has been crucial for accessing new opportunities, improving living conditions, and addressing various challenges such as environmental changes and social instabilities. The event will challenge traditional views on mobility by examining its impact on past and present societies.

Mobility was essential in prehistoric times for reaching new areas with opportunities. Caravan routes helped societies tackle environmental challenges and natural disasters. Today, mobility remains a challenge for some due to past restrictions like those during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conference offers a platform to explore different aspects of mobility and nomadic societies.

Abdulrahman Alsuhaibani, Vice President of Culture at the Royal Commission for AlUla, stated that this conference aims to provide an advanced platform for dialogue and collaboration. It will alternate with the summit next year to maintain momentum while preparing for the 2025 AlUla World Archaeology Summit.

Alsuhaibani highlighted that AlUla is one of the most active regions globally in archaeological exploration. Over 30,000 archaeological sites have been identified there, with 12 ongoing projects exploring its rich cultural landscape. "AlUla has held a unique position for thousands of years as a crossroads for civilizations," he said.

The conference will feature key speakers like Professor Willeke Wendrich from UCLA's Department of Near Eastern Languages and Cultures, Professor Stefano Biagetti from Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, and Peter Debrine from UNESCO's Sustainable Tourism Programme.

Discoveries in AlUla

Research led by Saudi and international archaeologists under the Royal Commission has uncovered many historical wonders in AlUla. These include massive stone structures called "mustatil", ancient animal traps known as "desert kites", long "funerary avenues" lined with tombs connecting oases, and dwellings called "standing stone circles".

Studies suggest early societies in northwestern Arabia were more complex than previously thought. They had connections with broader regions. The conference will host the first-ever global exhibition featuring pieces from Italy's National Archaeological Museum of Naples.

Field Visits to Historical Sites

The agenda includes field visits to notable archaeological sites in AlUla and nearby areas such as Tayma and Khaybar. These visits aim to provide attendees with firsthand insights into the region's rich historical tapestry.

This gathering promises to be an enlightening experience for all participants by offering fresh perspectives on archaeology and nomadic heritage while fostering international collaboration among experts.

With inputs from SPA