Heritage in Saudi Arabia?
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Saudi Arabia
There are five UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Saudi Arabia. In addition, eleven properties are included in the UNESCO Tentative List (see List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Saudi Arabia).
Al-Ahsa Oasis World Heritage Site A developing cultural scene
Al-Ahsa Oasis shows traces of continuous human settlement in the Gulf region from the Neolithic period to the present. The largest oasis in the world includes gardens, caves, canals, springs, fountains, a drainage lake, and historical buildings in an urban setting. The oasis covers more than 85 square kilometers, is fed by a huge underground aquifer and is irrigated by the flow of more than 280 artesian springs.
World Heritage Site Al-Hajar Archaeological Site (Madain Saleh)
Al-Hajar (Madain Saleh) was the first recognized World Heritage site in Saudi Arabia. Al-Hajar is the largest preserved site of the Nabataean civilization south of Petra in Jordan. The archaeological site is famous for its well-preserved monumental tombs with ornate facades dating from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD.
World Heritage Site At-Turaif District in Diriyah
Diriyah was the first capital of the Saudi dynasty. The city is located in the center of the Arabian Peninsula, northwest of Riyadh. From 1744 to 1818, the settlement served as the capital of the Emirate of Diriyah during the reign of the First Saudi Dynasty.
World Heritage Site Historic Jeddah, Makkah Gate
Jeddah is a Saudi coastal city on the Red Sea. In the seventh century, Jeddah was an important trading port for the Indian Ocean trade routes, through which they transported goods to the holy city of Mecca. The port is still the gateway for the many Muslim pilgrims who come to Mecca by sea.
World Heritage Site Rock Art in Hail, Saudi Arabia
In two places in the desert of the Hail region, the ancients left their traces 10,000 years ago. Numerous rock paintings were found near Jabal Umm Sinman and in the Shuwaymis area.