Saudi Heritage Commission, University of Exeter Launch Archaeological Survey Along Ancient Hajj Route

Logo of the Saudi Heritage Commission
Logo of the Saudi Heritage Commission
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Saudi Heritage Commission, University of Exeter Launch Archaeological Survey Along Ancient Hajj Route

Logo of the Saudi Heritage Commission
Logo of the Saudi Heritage Commission

Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission has signed a scientific cooperation agreement with Britain’s University of Exeter, aiming to implement archaeological survey and excavation work on archaeological sites located on the historic Hajj route between Makkah and Madinah.

The Heritage Commission aims to expand its base of scientific partnerships with international universities and research centers specializing in the fields of heritage and to promote field studies that contribute to documenting and protecting these historically significant sites.

The Heritage Commission said it continues its efforts with the support and attention of the wise leadership, within the framework of national efforts to benefit from heritage assets and achieve cultural, economic, and social returns, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.



Saudi Pavilion Launches Cultural Exchange Program at Expo 2025 Osaka

The Saudi flag. Asharq Al-Awsat
The Saudi flag. Asharq Al-Awsat
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Saudi Pavilion Launches Cultural Exchange Program at Expo 2025 Osaka

The Saudi flag. Asharq Al-Awsat
The Saudi flag. Asharq Al-Awsat

The Saudi Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka has launched its cultural exchange program, designed to provide professional and personal development for staff from participating pavilions. This initiative aims to share Saudi Arabia's rich cultural heritage and global influence with new team members.

Director of the Saudi Pavilion Eng. Adel Alfayez said that the program celebrates unity through diversity and fosters collaboration among pavilions, enabling the exchange of stories and the building of connections.

Alfayez welcomed the new team members, highlighting their journey through the Kingdom's diverse heritage, landscapes, and economy. This experience will help them build meaningful relationships with visitors and enrich their careers in preparation for Expo 2030 Riyadh.

The program's inaugural phase includes 13 Saudi staff members distributed across five international pavilions, with 15 visiting international staff members rotating through key roles in the Saudi Pavilion for three months. Additional participants will join in later rounds.

Visiting staff will undergo comprehensive training, covering Saudi culture, occupational health and safety, pavilion operational objectives, and visitor experience management. A job shadowing system will provide direct support from Saudi colleagues, ensuring immersion in the Kingdom's culture and skill acquisition.

The Saudi Pavilion will host over 700 events during Expo 2025 Osaka, including live shows, performing arts, and heritage activities. Visitors can enjoy a rich cultural experience featuring an augmented reality exhibit, as well as musical performances and special events marking national occasions.