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Arab News
29-05-2025
- General
- Arab News
Heritage Commission records 53 violations in March and April as oversight efforts continue
RIYADH: The Heritage Commission recorded 53 violations related to antiquities and urban heritage across several regions of the Kingdom during March and April 2025, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday. It comes as part of the commission's efforts to protect Saudi Arabia's cultural heritage and address irregular practices that threaten its preservation, SPA added. In March, 29 violations were identified, including the unauthorized sale of antiquities and the carrying out of archaeological survey and excavation activities without the required permits. Several violations were also detected via social media platforms. Two cases were referred to the Public Prosecution, seven were sent to the Violations Review Committee, and 20 were passed on to the relevant security authorities. In April, the commission monitored 24 violations, including encroachments on archaeological sites in Madinah, the Eastern Province, Tabuk, Hail, the Northern Borders Region and Al-Jouf. These included unauthorized entry into sites, tampering with fencing or signage, and the unlicensed use of metal detectors. Additional violations were uncovered through digital platforms, involving the possession and display of manuscripts, coins and historical replicas intended for illegal trade. The commission has initiated legal action in several cases, referring some to the Public Prosecution and others to Public Security. The Violations Review Committee has issued financial penalties ranging from SR5,000 ($1,332) to SR50,000. The Heritage Commission stressed that monitoring and enforcement efforts are part of a broader strategy to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the Kingdom's antiquities and preventing actions that could damage their historical or cultural significance. It also emphasized the vital role of community members and institutions in safeguarding the nation's heritage. Citizens and residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity or attempts to trade antiquities through official channels, including the 'Archaeological Report' service, the Commission's social media accounts, or the Unified Security Operations Center at 911. The commission reiterated that preserving national heritage was a shared responsibility that requires collective action.
Saudi Gazette
29-05-2025
- Saudi Gazette
Heritage Commission records 53 violations of antiquities and heritage laws in two months
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — The Heritage Commission recorded 53 violations of regulations related to antiquities and urban heritage across several regions in Saudi Arabia during March and April 2025, as part of ongoing oversight efforts to safeguard the Kingdom's cultural legacy. In March alone, 29 violations were documented, including the illegal display of antiquities for sale, unlicensed archaeological survey and excavation activities, and other infractions identified on social media platforms. Two cases were referred to the Public Prosecution, while seven were sent to the Violations Review Committee. Additionally, 20 cases were handed over to relevant security authorities for further action. In April, 24 violations were detected, involving unauthorized encroachment on archaeological sites in Madinah, the Eastern Province, Tabuk, Hail, the Northern Borders, and Al-Jawf. These violations included illegal entry, tampering with site structures or signage, and the unauthorized use of metal detectors. Authorities also tracked digital platforms marketing historical manuscripts, ancient coins, and archaeological replicas for illegal trade. Legal procedures were initiated against the violators. The Public Prosecution and Public Security are handling multiple cases, while the Violations Review Committee has issued fines ranging between SR5,000 and SR50,000. The Commission underscored that these enforcement actions are part of a structured national oversight plan to protect Saudi Arabia's antiquities and urban heritage. It also emphasized the importance of public awareness and civic responsibility in preserving the Kingdom's historical sites. Citizens and residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities or attempted antiquities trading via official channels, including the 'Archaeological Report' service, social media platforms, or the Unified Security Operations Center at 911. The Commission reiterated that heritage preservation is a shared duty requiring collaboration from the entire community.
