The Heritage Authority has identified 23 violations of the antiquities law and referred cases to the Public Prosecution
As part of its ongoing efforts to protect national heritage and historical sites, the Heritage Commission the detection of 23 violations of the Antiquities and Urban Heritage Law in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during December 2025. These violations were geographically distributed across five main regions: Riyadh, Al-Jawf, Makkah, Asir, and Madinah, reflecting the comprehensive oversight exercised by the Commission throughout the Kingdom.
Details of violations and legal procedures
The authority explained that the observed violations varied in nature, including direct encroachment on archaeological sites through unauthorized excavation and dredging, and conducting archaeological surveys without obtaining the required official approvals from the Heritage Authority. The inspection teams also detected instances of artifacts being offered for sale without the necessary legal permits.
In accordance with the regulations and bylaws, the Authority took strict legal measures against the violators, as one of the cases was referred directly to the Public Prosecution for consideration and application of the appropriate penalties, while the rest of the violations were referred to the Public Security to complete the necessary regulatory procedures and investigations.
Legal framework and protection of national memory
These strict measures are based on the Antiquities and Urban Heritage Law and its implementing regulations, which aim to protect the Kingdom's historical treasures from tampering, theft, or defacement. Antiquities in Saudi Arabia are considered public property, and the law criminalizes any attempt to excavate or trade in them without an official permit. The Authority works diligently to ensure the preservation of these cultural landmarks for future generations, recognizing them as an integral part of the national identity.
The strategic and cultural importance of heritage
Preserving heritage in the Kingdom is gaining increased importance under Saudi Vision 2030, which places national heritage as a cornerstone of cultural and economic development. The regions where violations were observed, such as Al-Jawf, Asir, and Madinah, are rich in historical sites dating back to ancient civilizations, from the Stone Age to the Islamic era and beyond.
Protecting these sites from encroachment is not merely an administrative measure; it is an urgent necessity to ensure the sustainability of the cultural resources upon which global tourism projects in the Kingdom depend. Furthermore, preserving the authenticity of archaeological sites enhances the Kingdom's standing in international organizations such as UNESCO and guarantees the accuracy of scientific and historical research conducted within the Kingdom.
The Heritage Authority renews its call to all citizens and residents to cooperate in protecting this cultural heritage and to report any suspicious practices or violations that may harm archaeological sites, stressing that community awareness is the first line of defense for the history of the nation.
