Heritage Commission Initiates Second Phase Of Red Sea Underwater Cultural Heritage Survey

The Heritage Commission has initiated the second phase of a project aimed at exploring underwater cultural heritage sites along the Red Sea Coast. This phase involves collaboration with King Abdulaziz University, the University of Naples L'Orientale in Italy, and several international partners. These include the Alexandria Center for Maritime Archaeology and Underwater Cultural Heritage, South Korea's National Research Institute of Maritime Cultural Heritage, and the University of Cape Town in South Africa.

The project's second phase is part of broader national efforts to safeguard Saudi Arabia's rich cultural heritage. It aims to develop sustainable methods for conserving underwater sites, particularly in Jeddah and Al-Qunfudhah governorates. The initiative seeks to gather precise data for managing and protecting these locations while expanding research and scientific studies related to them.

This endeavour will also shed light on the historical and cultural ties between Saudi Arabia and other nations, given the Red Sea Coast's role as a significant maritime route throughout history. The project aligns with Saudi Arabia's commitment to preserving its heritage, as outlined in Vision 2030, which includes establishing a centre dedicated to underwater cultural heritage.

Expected results from this phase include detailed reports analysing archaeological discoveries, a comprehensive management plan, and thorough scientific documentation of submerged heritage elements. These findings will be integrated into the national archaeological registry, enhancing protection measures for underwater cultural sites along the Red Sea Coast.

Saudi Arabia's efforts in this domain are consistent with the UNESCO Underwater Cultural Heritage 2001 Convention. The Kingdom has been proactive in establishing frameworks that support sustainable development in national heritage conservation. This initiative is a key component of these efforts, aiming to bolster knowledge and documentation of underwater cultural assets.

The ultimate objective is to enrich understanding and documentation of Saudi Arabia's underwater cultural heritage. By doing so, it contributes significantly to both national and international archaeological records. This project not only highlights historical connections but also strengthens global partnerships in maritime archaeology.

With inputs from SPA