ar- العربية The Al-Faw archaeological area, situated southwest of Riyadh, is the latest location in Saudi Arabia to be included on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Nestled in Wadi Ad-Dawasir at the intersection of the Empty Quarter desert and the Tuwaiq mountain range, this site is home to nearly 12,000 archaeological remains and has a history of human habitation spanning over 6,000 years.
Al-Faw was once a key stop on ancient trade routes. Excavations have revealed tools, stone structures, burial sites, rock carvings, an ancient water management system, and remnants of the city of Qaryat Al-Faw. The sacred mountain of Khashm Qaryah, along with residential areas and roads that facilitated trade caravans, highlights the area’s historical importance.
The UNESCO World Heritage Committee inscribed Al-Faw on the World Heritage List during its 46th annual session held in New Delhi. This marks the eighth site in Saudi Arabia to be recognized, following Hegra Archaeological Site (2008), At-Turaif District in ad-Dir’iyah (2010), Historic Jeddah (2014), Rock Art in the Hail Region (2015), Al-Ahsa Oasis (2018), Ḥimā Cultural Area (2021), and ‘Uruq Bani Ma‘arid (2023). The successful nomination by the Ministry of Culture, represented by the Heritage Commission in collaboration with the National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
Standing at the northwestern edge of the Empty Quarter, Al-Faw showcases human occupation from early settlements to a thriving urban center in the 1st millennium BCE. Saudi archaeologists discovered ancient springs and an extensive irrigation network, testifying to a once-thriving cultural landscape.
Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan AlSaud, the Saudi Minister of Culture, emphasized UNESCO’s recognition of Al-Faw as a testament to the Kingdom’s dedication to heritage preservation. He noted that such sites highlight Saudi Arabia’s rich history and cultural significance, which the Kingdom is committed to protecting for future generations.
The inclusion of Al-Faw on the UNESCO World Heritage List aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes the importance of national identity and heritage.