Saudi Arabia: 1,774 Archaeological Discoveries Documented In Madinah’s Al Mahd Governorate

During the second season of survey work, which took place in Al Mahd Governorate of the Medina region, 1,774 archaeological finds were documented by Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission. Several new sites were identified. Ancient inscriptions and rock panels were also discovered. Here’s all you need to know about this big development coming in from Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia Documents 1,774 Archaeological Discoveries

As revealed in a report of Saudi Gazette, the survey covered three areas. These included Al Suwayriqiyah, Al Muwayhiyah and Hadhah. And as a result, 156 new archaeological sites were recorded by the commission. The findings also included 461 Islamic inscriptions, 1,259 rock art panels, 11 stone structures, and 34 Thamudic inscriptions. Additionally, three historical palaces, four wheels, and two ancient caravan routes were also discovered.

Rock Inscription Bearing The Name Of Second Caliph

At Al Mahd, we rediscovered the past, documenting the traces left by those who once inhabited this region through enduring signs of their presence that have withstood the passage of time.#SaudiHeritageCommission pic.twitter.com/jKRFTAGMfi

— هيئة التراث (@MOCHeritage) June 9, 2026

As further mentioned in the report, rock inscriptions, which bear the name of the second Islamic Caliph, Omar bin Al Khattab, are one of the most significant findings. Along with these, Arabic poetry that was engraved on rock faces was also discovered.

Heritage Commission mentions it would continue the archaeological survey and documentation programmes across the kingdom. It is a part of its effort to preserve the natural cultural heritage, which is in line with the objective of Saudi Vision 2030.

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1,700+ Artefacts Discovered Previously

This development comes just days after more than 1,700 artefacts were discovered at the archaeological site of Miqat Al Juhfah. As mentioned in the report of the Gulf News, it mentioned the importance of key stations on the ancient Hajj route to Mecca. These discoveries were made during the first season of survey and documentation work at the site. It was carried out by Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission in collaboration with the University of Exeter, UK.

Coming to the discovery, it included glass, pottery, and stone fragments. There were also shelves, crafted objects, and other archaeological findings, which underscore the significance of Al Juhfah along the historic Egyptian Hajj route. These artefacts also reflected several aspects of daily life, and they included beads, shells, and even metal objects.

Six pottery kilns and a water channel, which might have served pilgrims and travellers who passed through the site, were also uncovered. Additionally, 13 tombstones were also uncovered. These dated back to the Umayyad and Abbasid periods.

Cover Image Courtesy: X/MOCHeritage