Faya World Heritage Listing Ceremony: Sharjah Ruler Emphasises Site's Historical Significance

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended a ceremony marking the inclusion of "Faya" on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The event took place at the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, where H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan inaugurated a commemorative monument and received the official inscription certificate from Lazare Eloundou Assomo, Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority; and H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Ambassador of the Faya World Heritage Site. Other notable attendees included Sheikh Majid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mu'alla and Sheikh Khalid bin Issam Al Qasimi.

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During his speech, H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan highlighted Faya's unique historical value. He stated that its rocks preserve stories of early human presence, offering insights into how humans adapted to their environment. "Here we stand before living pages of the book of humanity," he said, emphasising how these sites connect present generations to their roots.

H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan also stressed that historical sites hold cultural and human value beyond material worth. He noted that preserving these sites helps future generations understand their identity and role in society. "When we give these sites the study and protection they deserve," he added, "we are not merely preserving stones or relics but accumulated knowledge."

The Emirate of Sharjah has made significant efforts to support cultural initiatives, with heritage playing a central role in its cultural projects. Historical research at Faya has revealed insights into early human community organisation and resource distribution. These findings form fundamental pillars for understanding social structures throughout history.

H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan praised researchers for their groundbreaking discoveries at Faya, which have reshaped scientific assumptions about human migration. Stone tools found at the site date back over 200,000 years, indicating modern humans were present much earlier than previously believed.

Faya's Global Impact

The inscription of Faya on the UNESCO World Heritage List is seen as a gift from this region to humanity. It offers a new perspective on early human migration routes through the Arabian Peninsula, showing it was more than just a passageway but an early homeland for settlement and life.

H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi announced a new initiative called the "Faya Research Grant," worth two million dirhams over three years. This grant aims to support specialised studies on Faya and encourage young researchers' participation in expanding knowledge about its significance in human development.

Cultural Initiatives in Sharjah

Eisa Yousif, Director-General of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority, affirmed that under His Highness's leadership, Sharjah has become a hub for heritage understanding. He commended H.H. Sheikha Bodour for leading efforts to showcase regional heritage globally.

The ceremony featured artistic programmes highlighting Faya's history through films and presentations using advanced techniques like 3D filming to simulate changing environments over thousands of years.

Future Plans for Faya

The Ambassador of the Faya World Heritage Site spoke about future plans for ongoing research and international collaboration to deepen understanding of Faya’s significance. She emphasised that preserving this heritage requires commitment from all involved parties.

Lazare Eloundou Assomo praised Sharjah's efforts in protecting cultural heritage during his speech at the event: "Your Highness...the attention you have given to culture is commendable." He highlighted how listing sites like Faya demonstrates their outstanding universal value warranting protection for all humankind.

Acknowledging Contributions

At the conclusion of her speech, H.H. Sheikha Bodour expressed gratitude towards those who contributed to securing recognition for Faya as part of humanity’s shared history: "This achievement would not have been possible without His Highness’s vision."

The evening ended with a formal dinner reflecting on site spirit while promoting global heritage values through scientific gatherings showcasing Sharjah’s dedication towards fostering knowledge awareness worldwide.

With inputs from WAM