Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission has launched a study, the Al-Yamamah Archaeological Project, to expand research on Riyadh and its surrounding areas.
From 2024 to 2028, the commission will explore and excavate parts of the capital and adjacent areas, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The aim is to enhance the national archaeological record, showcase the capital’s rich history, and study cultural heritage.
The project includes a comprehensive survey of Riyadh, Wadi Hanifah and surrounding areas, as well as excavations in Dhurma, Al-Hani and Al-Masane.
The commission posted on X the statistics of registered cultural heritage sites in Riyadh. There are 1,812 sites in the National Register of Urban Heritage, 1,514 in the National Antiquities Register, and 425 recognized for their rock art and ancient inscriptions.
For the study, the commission plans to employ geographic information systems, ground-penetrating radar, 3D modeling, magnetic surveying, low-altitude aerial photography, and artificial intelligence for mapping.
Their strategy involves collaborating with historians, academics, students from local universities, and international institutions.
