Heritage Commission Documents Over 74,000 Cultural Assets

Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission has documented more than 74,000 cultural assets across the Kingdom, covering archaeological, architectural and historical sites, according to Nayef Alqanour, head of archaeological sites at the commission.

More than 80,000 artefacts from these locations have also been digitally catalogued. Saudi Arabia currently has eight UNESCO World Heritage sites and 18 elements listed as intangible cultural heritage.

The figures were presented during the Security and History Dialogue Conference at the Cultural Palace in Riyadh, which concluded on September 8th after three days of sessions examining the relationship between geography, history and cultural identity.

Alqanour said the commission is using advanced digital tools to systematically catalogue heritage sites and artefacts. He also pointed to ancient rock art as an important source for tracing cultural continuity, arguing that carvings, drawings and inscriptions show long-standing connections in Arab identity while also reflecting historical trade and cultural exchange.

Other sessions examined how climate, natural resources and geography influenced patterns of settlement and movement. Speakers discussed the role of rainfall in supporting agriculture and permanent communities, while periods of drought placed greater pressure on resources and population stability.