Riyadh, 3rd November 2024 — The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) recently unveiled a groundbreaking archaeological discovery: a Bronze Age town in the Khaybar Oasis, northwest Saudi Arabia. Published in the scientific journal PLOS ONE, this discovery underscores the region’s rich historical significance and its potential to bolster tourism through cultural and archaeological heritage.

At a press conference held at the Saudi Press Agency conference center in Riyadh, the RCU emphasized the discovery’s importance in solidifying Saudi Arabia’s position as a global leader in antiquities and cultural preservation. This find aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes the protection of cultural and historical assets, fostering international collaboration, and raising global awareness of shared human heritage.

The Bronze Age settlement, named Al-Natah, marks a shift from nomadic pastoralism to permanent urbanization during the third millennium BCE. Led by Dr. Guillaume Charloux of the French National Centre for Scientific Research and Dr. Munirah AlMushawh of RCU, the research revealed that the site served as a hub for agriculture, trade, and commerce, influencing the socio-economic framework of the region. Al-Natah was home to approximately 500 residents and spanned 2.6 hectares. The site featured residential zones and burial areas within its fortified boundaries, surrounded by a 15-km-long stone wall for protection.

Located on the edge of the Harrat Khaybar volcanic field, this ancient town was strategically positioned at the junction of three valleys, supporting its role as a significant urban and trade center.

Tourism and Archaeology: A Path to Economic Growth

This discovery adds to the global allure of Saudi Arabia’s archaeological treasures, such as AlUla and Tayma, and strengthens its potential as a tourist destination. Sites like Khaybar Oasis provide visitors with a glimpse into the region’s ancient history, offering immersive experiences that connect them to the past.

Archaeological tourism has proven to be a significant economic driver worldwide. For instance, Egypt generates billions of dollars annually from its ancient sites, such as the Pyramids of Giza. This model demonstrates the potential of archaeological tourism for economic and cultural revitalization. Similarly, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to uncovering and showcasing its heritage could attract millions of tourists, boosting local economies, creating jobs, and enhancing global understanding of the region’s history.

In Pakistan, sites like Mohenjo Daro, contemporary to ancient Egypt, remain underutilized for tourism. With strategic investment, these archaeological treasures could position Pakistan alongside global leaders in heritage tourism.

The collaboration between RCU, the French Agency for the Development of AlUla (AFALULA), and the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) sets an example for nations to leverage international expertise in preserving and promoting their heritage. This partnership underscores the critical role of archaeological discoveries in both understanding history and driving sustainable tourism growth.

As more discoveries like Al-Natah emerge, they illuminate not only the past but also the path forward—where cultural preservation and tourism unite to create economic and educational opportunities for communities worldwide.