13,040 New Sites Recorded in Saudi National Urban Heritage Register

13,040 New Sites Recorded in Saudi National Urban Heritage Register
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13,040 New Sites Recorded in Saudi National Urban Heritage Register

13,040 New Sites Recorded in Saudi National Urban Heritage Register

The Saudi Heritage Commission has registered 13,040 new urban heritage sites in the National Urban Heritage Register, increasing the number of documented sites in Saudi Arabia to 17,495.
The commission is committed to preserving and managing urban heritage sites with high efficiency, emphasizing their cultural significance, and raising public awareness about their importance, SPA reported.
The newly registered sites are found in various regions: 1,950 in Riyadh, 3,273 in Madinah, 1,531 in Al-Baha, 1,525 in Hail, 1,400 in Qassim, 972 in Aseer, 762 in the Eastern Region, 571 in Makkah, 363 in Al-Jouf, 351 in Jazan, 200 in Najran, 107 in Tabuk, and 35 in the Northern Borders.
The Heritage Commission continues to identify and register urban heritage sites throughout the Kingdom. This process is guided by the Antiquities, Museums and Urban Heritage Law, which facilitates research and the discovery of heritage sites, employing advanced global technologies and practices to preserve, document, and protect them.
The commission is also creating a comprehensive database of heritage sites to ensure their effective management.
Citizens and stakeholders are encouraged to report urban heritage sites and buildings for registration on the Heritage Commission’s official platforms, including its online service portal at https://contactcenter.moc.gov.sa, its official X (formerly Twitter) account, and its regional branches.
The commission underscored the vital role of public awareness and community participation in preserving and enhancing the Kingdom’s heritage.



Saudi Arabia Designates 2025 as the Year of Handicrafts to Celebrate Its Vibrant Cultural Heritage

The year dedicated to preserving and documenting traditional Saudi handicrafts and strengthening their international presence (Ministry of Culture)
The year dedicated to preserving and documenting traditional Saudi handicrafts and strengthening their international presence (Ministry of Culture)
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Saudi Arabia Designates 2025 as the Year of Handicrafts to Celebrate Its Vibrant Cultural Heritage

The year dedicated to preserving and documenting traditional Saudi handicrafts and strengthening their international presence (Ministry of Culture)
The year dedicated to preserving and documenting traditional Saudi handicrafts and strengthening their international presence (Ministry of Culture)

Handicrafts have long held a special place in Saudi Arabia’s cultural fabric, representing a prosperous heritage passed down through generations. Rooted in the creativity and skill of Saudi artisans, these traditional crafts symbolize the nation’s ingenuity and resilience while highlighting its diverse cultural identity.
Throughout 2025, the Saudi Ministry of Culture will organize an array of events, exhibitions, educational programs, and exciting competitions under the banner of the "Year of Handicrafts." These activities aim to emphasize the cultural and historical significance of handicrafts while supporting their relevance in modern life, said the Saudi Press Agency on Wednesday.
By highlighting artisanry across various sectors, the initiative seeks to foster appreciation for traditional arts and encourage their continued practice and preservation.
Handicrafts, including palm weaving, metalwork, and pottery, serve as enduring symbols of Saudi culture, blending tradition with modernity. These crafts are not only an artistic expression but also a reflection of the Kingdom’s history, values, and adaptability. By celebrating these art forms, the Year of Handicrafts aims to inspire new generations to engage with their heritage and highlight the talent of Saudi artisans to local and global audiences.
The initiative also seeks to empower artisans by enhancing opportunities for their crafts in contemporary markets and strengthening their connection with the global community. Through partnerships across the public, private, and non-profit sectors, the Year of Handicrafts will cultivate sustainable practices, foster innovation, and contribute to cultural dialogue.
As a testament to the Ministry of Culture’s commitment to safeguarding Saudi Arabia’s heritage, the Year of Handicrafts provides a platform to celebrate the stories, skills, and traditions that form the foundation of the Kingdom’s cultural identity.