1,293 Underwater Heritage Sites Documented In Saudi Arabia, Recovering 1,000+ Artefacts!

The Heritage Commission in Saudi Arabia announced documentation of 1,293 underwater cultural heritage sites. This was along the coast of the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. Not only this, but over 1,000 artefacts were also discovered through marine exploration and excavation sites. Here’s all you need to know about this big development coming from Saudi Arabia that every history enthusiast would want to know.

Heritage Commission Documents 1,293 Underwater Cultural Heritage Sites

ضمن مشاركة المملكة في الاجتماع السابع عشر للهيئة الاستشارية العلمية والتقنية (STAB)، استعرضنا منجزاتنا في حماية التراث الثقافي المغمور بالمياه، وجهودنا في توثيقه والتعريف به.#هيئة_التراث pic.twitter.com/PXEG404DMy

— هيئة التراث (@MOCHeritage) June 18, 2026

The announcement was showcased as a part of Saudi Arabia’s achievements at the 17th meeting of the Scientific and Technical Advisory Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation. This meeting happened in Paris, and Saudi Arabia unveiled how it documented 1,293 underwater cultural heritage sites.

It highlighted the national efforts that the commission has undertaken in documenting and safeguarding these sites. All of these fall within the framework of the commitment of the kingdom towards applying best international practises when it comes to preserving marine cultural assets. These details were mentioned in a report of Saudi Gazette.

Also Read: flydubai Once Again Named The Airline With Best Connectivity In The Middle East!

More Than 1,000 Artefacts Recovered

It should be noted that the work included more than 50 marine exploration and excavation projects. As a result, over 1,000 artefacts were recovered. Through these efforts, a deeper understanding of maritime history is gathered, and it showcases the cultural heritage that is associated with the Saudi waters.

The Heritage Commission also mentioned how it is constantly trying to raise public awareness. For this, it has hosted four informational exhibitions, which shine a light on the importance of underwater cultural heritage sites. Not to mention, they also reinforce initiatives which aim to preserve these as a part of the shared cultural and human legacy.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ benedek from Getty Images Signature & Canva Pro/inusuke from Getty Images (Cover image is for representative purposes only)