Saudi Heritage Commission launches Al-Yamama Archaeological Project in Riyadh

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's Heritage Commission has launched Al-Yamama Archaeological Project, which focuses on surveying, exploring, and excavating in and around Riyadh to discover its historical and cultural richness and preserving the Kingdom's cultural heritage sites. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Monday that the Commission will conduct various archaeological surveys and excavations in Riyadh during 2024-2028. A detailed study of Riyadh, along Wadi Hanifah, and surrounding areas will be part of the project. In collaboration with the Commission's partners, three excavation projects are scheduled in locations such as the Dharma governorate, Al-Hanee and Al-Masane areas. Executing these survey and excavation projects involve collaborating with experts in Riyadh's history and antiquities, as well as with academics and students from Saudi universities and international educational institutions. The project seeks to uncover key aspects of Riyadh's growth, and explore, document, and preserve archaeologi cal and historical sites, in line with the Commission's objective to safeguard and showcase the Kingdom's enduring civilisation. The Heritage Commission utilises cutting-edge technologies such as geographic information systems, ground-penetrating radar surveys, 3D modelling, magnetic surveying, low-altitude aerial photography, and AI for generating geographic and topographic maps. Source: Emirates News Agency