Heritage Commission records 55 violations at cultural sites in Q2 2026

Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission has reported 55 violations affecting cultural heritage sites and artifacts across several regions of the Kingdom during the second quarter of 2026. The announcement comes as part of ongoing efforts to protect archaeological and heritage sites, preserve their historical components, and strengthen compliance with sector regulations.

The commission stated that 16 of the recorded violations involved on-site encroachments identified during inspection tours and through public reports. These included unauthorized excavation, site tampering, damage to informational and warning signs, and harm to gates and fences designed to protect heritage locations in Riyadh, Qassim, Asir, Tabuk, Northern Borders, and Al-Baha.

Twelve violations were detected on social media platforms, involving unauthorized archaeological surveys, entering and sharing information about heritage sites, drone photography, illegal excavation, damage to sites, possession of artifacts, and claims of interpreting symbols or signs as evidence of treasures or antiquities.

The commission also recorded 27 violations related to the possession and sale or promotion of archaeological and cultural artifacts through social media, online stores, and e-commerce platforms. These included coins, metal objects, vessels, stone sculptures, and various cultural items, all offered without the required official permits.

The Heritage Commission urged citizens and residents to report any violations at archaeological or heritage sites via its official social media accounts, by visiting its offices and branches across the Kingdom, through the "Archaeological Report" service, or by calling the unified security operations center at 911.