UAE: Sharjah Eyes UNESCO recognition for two more heritage sites after Jebel Faya inscription | world News
TL; Dr.
- Sharjah’s Malyha and
Vadi al Hello The sites are in queue for the recognition of UNESCO. Jebel Faya The inscription promoted the cultural tourism and scientific status of Sharjah.- The ongoing efforts include strict conservation schemes to protect local authorities and heritage.
Sharjah recently celebrated a major milestone when the Jebel Faya Archaeological Site earned its place in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This achievement gave international recognition to Emirates as a major place in human history. But the work does not stop there. The Sharjah Anctivist Authority now focuses on achieving the status of UNESCO for two other important places: plaintiff Al Hello in the eastern region and the causal archaeological site in the central region. Both sites are already in the temporary list of UNESCO, which is the first step towards full recognition.Isssa Yusuf, Director General of Sharjah AntQ Authority Authority, shared these schemes in an interview with Emirates News Agency (WAM). He emphasized that Jebel Faya enrollment received strong support from 13 World Heritage Committee countries, reflecting the global scientific and cultural significance of the site. This success not only increases the profile of Sharjah internationally, but also opens new doors for cultural tourism and employment generation in the region.
What makes these sites important?
- Jebel Faya: About 200,000 years ago, the first desert site settled by humans is known as a rich history that has been exposed by German -led archaeological missions since 2003. The geology of the site includes rare opiolyte rocks, the earth’s mental pieces exposed on the surface, it is a world -class site for scientific studies.
- Mleiha archaeological site: Located in Central Sharjah, Mleiha has important archaeological remains from various historical periods. It is a cultural center that provides educational tourism and promotes heritage awareness.
- Plainy al -Hello: Located in the eastern part of Sharjah, this site keeps ancient settlements and artifacts that add depth to the prehistoric story of the region.
How is Sharjah protecting these treasures?
Protection is an important part of UNESCO requirements, and Sharjah is taking it seriously. Khulud al-Hauli al-Suwi, director of the tangible cultural heritage at the Antiquu as Authority at a local media outlet, said the management plan for Jebel Faa was fully prepared before its nomination. The site is open to visitors with tourism directed by Mleiha Archaeological Center. To protect the environment, vehicle routes change every two weeks to reduce the impact on the area.Annual Protection Report and five -year monitoring schemes are presented to UNESCO to ensure that these sites are preserved for future generations. This approach combines decades research with hand care.
Cooperation is key
The success of Sharjah’s legacy projects depends on cooperation between many local bodies:
- The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shuruk), which manages the Real Archaeological Center.
- The Environment and Protected Area Authority, which oversees the Zebel Buis Geological Park.
- Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, which promotes cultural tourism.
- The Department of Legal and Planning, which implement security laws and zoning rules.
According to the WAM, the two officials insisted that this achievement was his His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi is protected by a integrated legal structure issued by a member of the Supreme Council and an integrated legal structure issued by the ruler of Sharjah, who provided unlimited support for the project. The Legal Department and the Planning and Survey Department supported the achievement by issuing development rules for the protected area. Including, Shekha Bodore Bint Sultan Al Qasimi who provided necessary support and guidance throughout the process.
Listed on four Sharjah sites UNESCO Temporary List In 2023
In 2023, Sharjah added four new sites to the UNESCO’s temporary list, which highlighted the deep history of the Emirates and its role in the human settlement over thousands of years. These sites are:
- Pre-Islamic Mlyha located in Central Sharjah
- Four places with important rock art
- Plainy al -Hello, known for its ancient copper mining evidence
- Faya region in Central Sharjah
The sites were added in February 2023 after a thorough study by academic experts and experts. Of these, Faha Site received the official inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List on July 11, 2025
why it matters
The efforts of Sharjah highlight its role in the rich prehistoric past and early human migration of the region. These sites help us understand human history and promote cultural tourism in a way that respects the environment and local communities. For residents and visitors, it means access to world -class heritage sites which are both educational and inspiring.
