Saudi heritage authorities have announced legal action against 23 expatriates accused of encroaching on archaeological sites.
Details of the Violations
The government Heritage Commission stated that it had referred the 23 expatriates to competent agencies to take disciplinary procedures against them for violating the kingdom’s archaeological and urban heritage law by transporting stones and dust from antiquity sites.
Locations of the Violations
The violations were detected on the Umm Quriyat and Al Araj’a sites in Al Wajh governorate in the Tabuk region in north-western Saudi Arabia, the commission added.
Focus on National Heritage
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has put increasing emphasis on national heritage and paid attention to the renovation of ancient sites. Authorities have recently announced several archaeological discoveries as the kingdom’s tourism sector experiences a boom amid efforts to attract more foreign tourists as part of endeavors to overhaul the oil-reliant economy.
The Role of the Heritage Commission
In 2020, the kingdom created the Heritage Commission tasked with advancing and preserving the heritage sector. Moreover, the Commission supports efforts to develop national heritage assets, raise awareness, and generate interest in them. It is also responsible for holding training courses, developing educational programs, and providing scholarships for talents.
Commemorating Saudi Heritage
In September last year, the World Heritage Committee met in Riyadh. Since 2022, February 22 has been designated as Saudi Arabia’s Founding Day and an official holiday by King Salman bin Abdul Aziz. The day commemorates the establishment of the first Saudi state in 1727 by Imam Mohammad bin Saud, aiming to forge a stronger connection between present-day Saudis and their national heritage.
