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Thee Ain Village: Architectural Masterpieces on the Brink of World Heritage Status

Thee Ain, Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Thee Ain, Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Thee Ain Village: Architectural Masterpieces on the Brink of World Heritage Status

Thee Ain, Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Thee Ain, Saudi Arabia (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Nestled in the highlands of Tihamah, the Saudi village of Thee Ain captivates with its unique characteristics and meticulously paved streets and alleys.
As visitors wander through, the village’s architectural history unfolds, revealing the legacy of its 49 pyramid-shaped palaces built by skilled artisans centuries ago.
These structures have become a focal point for researchers and heritage enthusiasts intrigued by traditional construction methods.
The village’s rich cultural and natural heritage is now eagerly awaiting its potential inclusion on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
The Saudi Heritage Commission has worked diligently to prepare Thee Ain for this prestigious designation, transforming it into a tourist destination that attracts history enthusiasts and researchers.
The village’s geographical location adds to its historical and cultural significance, enhancing its appeal to visitors.
To fully grasp the beauty of Thee Ain’s structures, it’s essential to know they were built on a rocky hilltop 800 meters above sea level. Ancient builders carefully planned every detail, using early forms of “blueprints” to ensure that the buildings, some reaching up to four stories, fit perfectly with the available space.
Despite centuries of change and harsh weather, these buildings have remained sturdy and resilient. Today, they draw tourists from around the world, showcasing a rich architectural heritage that has evolved from a local gem to a global attraction.
Yahya Aref, a heritage expert and member of the Saudi Urban Heritage Association, told Asharq Al-Awsat that Thee Ain, spanning 15,354 square meters, was once called the “Marble Village” due to its rich marble deposits.
The village, built centuries ago, sits on a white cliff and features colorful, layered marble stones.
Aref explained that the village is designed in a pyramid-like shape with three levels. The top level includes forts for watching over farmland and providing protection. The central area houses the palaces, buildings, pathways, and a mosque.
He added that Thee Ain’s construction style is influential across the Arabian Peninsula.
Heritage buildings in the village start with a broad base that narrows by about 7 inches as it rises.
This design boosts the building’s durability. Additionally, small openings in the walls, which are wide inside, allowed residents to use sunlight to confuse and deter attackers.

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Culture

‘Year of The Camel’ Saudi Initiative Celebrates Arabian Peninsula’s Cultural Heritage

‘Year of The Camel’ Saudi Initiative Celebrates Arabian Peninsula’s Cultural Heritage
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‘Year of The Camel’ Saudi Initiative Celebrates Arabian Peninsula’s Cultural Heritage

‘Year of The Camel’ Saudi Initiative Celebrates Arabian Peninsula’s Cultural Heritage

Saudi Arabia is celebrating 2024 as the “Year of The Camel” to honor the special cultural role of the camel, known as the “ship of the desert.”

The year-long initiative will showcase the camel’s importance through various cultural, literary, recreational, and sports events organized by the Ministry of Culture and its partners.

The camel has been a key part of life in the Arabian Peninsula for centuries, influencing its culture, society, and economy. Despite modern advancements, the camel continues to symbolize the region’s traditions and values.

The ministry has kicked off the “Year of The Camel” with a series of events across the Kingdom. This initiative celebrates the camel’s long-standing role in Saudi life and explores its cultural and historical significance.

At the ministry’s pavilion in City Walk, part of Jeddah Season, visitors can enjoy a unique exhibit with seven sections. The display highlights the camel's cultural importance, traditional practices, historical legacy, and economic value, while promoting international cultural exchange.

Visitors at the “Year of the Camel” exhibition at the Madinah Book Fair. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Fahad Shaheen, a guide at the ministry’s pavilion in City Walk, Jeddah, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the exhibit is attracting more visitors daily from diverse backgrounds.

People are eager to experience camel sounds, view rock carvings, and learn about camel names and decorations.

In Madinah, the “Year of The Camel” pavilion at the Book Fair, which opened on Tuesday, offers a 3D display of camel features, names, and historical significance. It invites visitors to explore the importance of camels in Arabian culture and showcases different camel breeds and their unique traits.

Visitors are seen at the “Year of the Camel” exhibition at the Madinah Book Fair. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Saudi Arabia is actively working to develop its camel industry by raising awareness of camels' role in providing food and livelihood.

Efforts include increasing production, fighting diseases with regular vaccinations, and improving marketing of camel products to raise breeders’ income. The country is also partnering with international organizations to update regulations and systems related to camel activities.

A parade by the Saudi Camel Club during the Kingdom’s 93rd National Day. (SPA)

Moreover, Saudi Arabia has joined the United Nations FAO in launching the “International Year of the Camelids - 2024.”

This initiative underscores the Kingdom’s focus on camels for food security and economic growth. To highlight the camel’s role in culture and society, Saudi Arabia introduced the “Camel Studies Grant,” covering six key areas related to camels.

The Kingdom takes pride in its rich and diverse cultural history, which is a key part of its national identity. Saudi Arabia blends tradition with modernity, offering a unique cultural experience and a deep historical legacy to the world.