103 New Archaeological Sites Discovered in Saudi Arabia’s Najd Region
By hanif sabir
Published: 08 Aug 2026
2 min read
103 New Archaeological Sites Discovered in Saudi Arabia’s Najd Region
RIYADH: A comprehensive archaeological survey in Saudi Arabia’s central High Najd region has led to the discovery of 103 previously undocumented archaeological sites, including rock art, ancient inscriptions and other remains that provide important evidence of human activity and cultural development in the area.
According to Arab News, the discoveries were made during the first phase of a Heritage Commission project aimed at locating, studying and documenting rock art and ancient artifacts. A team of specialists conducted field surveys across different parts of the High Najd region for around 30 days.
The High Najd is a vast geographical area in central Saudi Arabia that encompasses parts of central and western Riyadh, Qassim and Hail, as well as eastern areas of the Makkah and Madinah regions and the northeastern part of Asir.
The 103 newly identified sites contain various stone structures, ancient inscriptions and images carved into rock surfaces. The engravings include human and animal figures as well as other symbolic representations, offering insights into human activities in the region during different historical periods.
The Heritage Commission said the discoveries highlight the rich and diverse historical, cultural and environmental heritage of the High Najd. The findings are expected to provide researchers with further information about human settlement, movement and cultural activities in the region over different periods.
The commission said the next phases of the project would include completing surveys of the remaining areas and conducting more detailed and specialized studies of the newly discovered sites. The sites will also be added to Saudi Arabia’s national archaeological register.
Authorities emphasized that protecting the archaeological sites and raising public awareness about their historical significance would remain an important part of the initiative, helping preserve Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage for future generations.
