Saudi Arabia's Al-Faw Archaeological Area Recognised By UNESCO

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has successfully added the Cultural Landscape of Al-Faw Archaeological Area to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This announcement was made by Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Minister of Culture and Chairman of the National Committee for Education, Culture, and Science. The inclusion was confirmed during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee held in New Delhi, India, from July 22 to 31.

Prince Badr highlighted that this achievement reflects the strong support given to Saudi heritage by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. He noted that registering cultural heritage elements with UNESCO demonstrates Saudi Arabia's deep historical roots and its role in global human heritage under Saudi Vision 2030.

"The Kingdom recognizes the importance of heritage, its preservation, and its promotion worldwide in order to establish a solid foundation for the present, chart a roadmap for future endeavors, and support the Heritage Commission in developing national heritage assets," said Prince Badr.

The Al-Faw Archaeological Area is situated in Wadi Al-Dawasir Governorate, south of Riyadh Region. It covers a protected area of 50 square kilometers with a buffer zone spanning 275 square kilometers. The site is located at the intersection of the Empty Quarter desert and Tuwaiq Mountain terrain, forming a narrow corridor known as "Al-Faw."

With this addition, Saudi Arabia now has several sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List. These include Al-Ahsa Oasis (2018), At-Turaif District in ad-Dir'iyah (2010), Hegra Archaeological Site (2008), Ḥima Cultural Area (2021), Historic Jeddah (2014), and Rock Art in Hail Region (2015).

UNESCO Recognition

The registration of Al-Faw as a cultural site underscores its outstanding universal value to humanity. This recognition aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's emphasis on celebrating national identity through both tangible and intangible cultural heritage.

This milestone also highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to preserving and promoting its rich cultural legacy on an international stage. The Kingdom aims to support future initiatives that enhance national heritage assets while contributing to global human heritage.

This achievement marks another step forward in showcasing Saudi Arabia's historical significance and dedication to cultural preservation. The Cultural Landscape of Al-Faw joins other renowned sites that reflect the Kingdom's diverse and rich history.

With inputs from SPA