UAE secures its second UNESCO World Heritage site: Details inside

The UAE reached a momentous milestone when UNESCO recognised and added the Faya Palaeolandscape in Sharjah to the World Heritage List, the first desert Paleolithic site to be recognised by UNESCO, if the Palaeolithic landscape specified is over 200,000 years old, and it hosts one of the oldest records of early human life under extremely dry and harsh desert conditions. The site contributes important knowledge regarding human evolution and prehistoric life within Southeast Arabia as well. Faya is the only Arab site added this year; it is the UAE’s second recognition since 2011, when the Cultural Sites of Al Ain were added to the World Heritage List. The inscription comes following more than 30 years of archaeological survey and research led by the Sharjah Archaeology Authority, working with archaeologists on behalf of the University of Tübingen and Oxford Brooks University. Archaeological excavations reveal 18 different layers of evidence for human capability across the desert geological landscape. Sharjah made its nomination submission in February of 2024 after 12 years of preparation and formal research. 

The official addition of the site demonstrates its Outstanding Universal Value (OUV). Furthermore, it demonstrates Sharjah’s vision to combine heritage preservation, heritage education, and development with environmental sustainability through H.H. Sheik Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE and Ruler of Sharjah. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the ambassador of the nomination, explained that the inscription highlights the significant influence of the Arabian Peninsula on human migration from Africa. In addition, Eisa Yousif, Director-General of Sharjah Archaeology Authority, stated that Faya is now considered to belong to all humanity. The UAE is developing a conservation plan for Faya for the 2024 – 2030 period that will address research and education as well as sustainable tourism, which will enable the site’s legacy to be carried on globally.

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