PARIS: Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission has announced the documentation of 1,293 underwater cultural heritage sites along the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf coastlines, while marine exploration missions have uncovered more than 1,000 archaeological artifacts beneath the Kingdom’s waters.

The achievements were presented during the 17th meeting of UNESCO’s Scientific and Technical Advisory Board (STAB) in Paris, where Saudi Arabia showcased its ongoing efforts to preserve and study underwater cultural heritage.

As part of the 2001 Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage, the Commission highlighted its commitment to applying international standards for documenting and safeguarding submerged archaeological sites and marine cultural assets.

According to the Commission, more than 50 marine exploration and excavation projects have been carried out across Saudi Arabia’s coastal waters. These initiatives have led to the recovery of over 1,000 historical artifacts, providing valuable insights into the Kingdom’s maritime history and enriching the national database of underwater heritage.

The Commission also emphasized its international cooperation efforts, noting that five agreements have been signed with global organizations to strengthen scientific collaboration and exchange expertise in underwater heritage conservation. Additionally, more than 10 specialized workshops have been organized to enhance technical knowledge and professional capacity in the field.

Public awareness has also been a priority, with the Commission hosting four exhibitions showcasing the historical and cultural importance of underwater heritage and encouraging its preservation for future generations.

Saudi Arabia’s participation in the UNESCO meeting reflects the Kingdom’s growing role in global heritage conservation initiatives and its continued commitment to protecting underwater archaeological resources while expanding international cooperation in cultural preservation.