27 Eco-Cultural Heritage Sites Planned Across Saudi National Parks
The first phase will cover five sites in Riyadh, five in Madinah, two in the Eastern Province and 15 in Asir.
Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification has signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Heritage Commission Saudi Arabia to integrate heritage sites within national parks and develop them into eco-cultural destinations.
The agreement outlines a first phase covering 27 sites across the Kingdom, focused on rehabilitation and long-term sustainability. The signing took place in the presence of Ahmed Al Ayada, Acting CEO of the centre, and Jasser Al Harbash, CEO of the Heritage Commission.
The rollout will span multiple regions, including five sites in Riyadh Region, five in Madinah Region, two in the Eastern Province and 15 in Asir Region. Highlighted locations include the rock inscriptions of Naqra Valley, Muawiyah Dam, the historic Jawatha Mosque and heritage sites in northern Riyadh such as Jubarah and Ad Dahna.
The initiative aims to align environmental planning with heritage preservation by surveying and registering archaeological sites, supporting their nomination for international recognition and setting priorities for rehabilitation within national parks.
It also includes measures to support local communities through heritage-based activities and traditional crafts, alongside efforts to raise public awareness and improve visitor understanding of cultural sites.
