Riyadh, April 19, 2024, The King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority has initiated an extensive initial archaeological survey aimed at evaluating the current status of the reserve. This significant endeavor, launched in conjunction with World Heritage Day celebrated on April 18, will involve conducting comprehensive archaeological and historical studies to fulfill the strategic objectives outlined in the 2030 Vision for royal reserves.
The survey, conducted in collaboration with King Saud University and with the support of the Saudi Heritage Commission, will be spearheaded by esteemed national experts renowned for their expertise in the field. The survey will utilize two methods: satellite surveys and a "comprehensive archaeological survey" involving on-site field inspections. Detailed reports will be compiled for each site visited during the fieldwork.
The study will address various aspects of the reserve's archaeology, including strategies for rehabilitating archaeological and historical sites and transforming them into tourist destinations. Additionally, the survey aims to develop a preservation plan for these sites.
The King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve is among the seven reserves established by Royal Decree. It operates as a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) under the governance of an independent authority led by a board of directors and chaired by Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif.
Situated in the Riyadh Region, the reserve spans approximately 28,000 square kilometers and encompasses notable areas such as Rawdat Al-Tanhat, Rawdat Al-Khafs, Rawdat Noura, Al-Dahna, Al-Suman, and their surrounding environs.