The Ministry of Culture has announced the inclusion of five UAE archaeological sites on the Tangible Heritage List of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO). The announcement was made during the 13th session of the Islamic World Heritage Committee, held in Uzbekistan.
The newly listed sites include Saruq Al Hadid in Dubai, along with four sites in the Emirate of Sharjah: Al Faya in the Central Region, the historic towers and forts of Khorfakkan, Al Nahwa, and Wadi Al Helo.
His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture and Chairman of the National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, stated that the inclusion of these sites represents a new achievement that reflects the depth of the UAE’s cultural heritage and its commitment to protecting and preserving its historic landmarks. He emphasized that this recognition further confirms the country’s active and influential role in supporting ICESCO’s efforts to safeguard heritage across the Islamic world.
He added that the Ministry will continue working to strengthen the presence of Emirati heritage on international heritage lists by documenting historic sites and supporting initiatives that promote sustainability and ensure their protection for future generations.
Saruq Al Hadid is considered one of the UAE’s most prominent archaeological sites. Located in the Dubai desert approximately 95 kilometers from the city, it was discovered in 2002 when His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum noticed dark traces in the sand dunes during an aerial tour. These were later identified as slag residue resulting from ancient metal smelting operations.
Archaeological studies indicate that the site dates back to the Early Bronze Age, around 2600 BCE, and remained active until the Late Iron Age, approximately 550 BCE. This makes it one of the richest mining and metal production sites in the southeastern Arabian Peninsula.
Excavations have uncovered thousands of artifacts, including bronze, pottery, and stone tools, various weapons, gold and silver ornaments, seals, beads, and metal snake figurines. These discoveries confirm the site’s importance as an advanced industrial center for metal smelting during the Iron Age.
In Sharjah, ICESCO also listed the “Cultural Landscape of Prehistoric Sites in Al Faya,” which is regarded as one of the most significant heritage locations in the region and an exceptional testament to early human settlement. The organization also included Wadi Al Helo in the Eastern Region, recognized as the earliest evidence of copper mining in the Arabian Peninsula during the Bronze Age, particularly in the transitional period from the Neolithic era.
The site provides comprehensive evidence of the development of local copper mining techniques and highlights how ancient communities adapted to the geological and environmental conditions of the valley.
The historic towers and forts of Khorfakkan were also added to the list. These structures represent an integrated defensive system reflecting the city’s strategic importance throughout the centuries. The complex includes the Portuguese Fort and Al Adwani Tower, both of which played a vital role in protecting the port. The Portuguese Fort is particularly significant as it is the only triangular-shaped fort still standing in the eastern Arabian Peninsula, dating from between the 14th and 20th centuries.
Al Nahwa, located south of Khorfakkan, was also included due to its unique archaeological and cultural value. The area features rock carvings dating back to various historical periods, from the Bronze Age through to more recent eras.
