The Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) has brought together experts from across the globe at an archaeology conference - the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia - to launch its first historical research project on the archaeology of Diriyah and the Nejd, an area located in the centre of the Arabian Peninsula.

 

As the first gathering of academics to support the research agenda for Diriyah’s cultural landscape, the conference kicks off a multi-year research project, which will delve into the ancient history of the site and inform future management. Run by the DGDA, the research will result in a range of publications, both general and academic, a series of site investigations, a public outreach programme and a travelling exhibition.

 

The Riyadh event, led by DGDA’s principal research partner Dr Derek Kennet, an associate professor of archaeology at the UK's Durham University, presented in detail what DGDA has learned about the region’s archaeology over the last few years, including what it currently understands and what opportunities there are for further exploration.

 

Scholars, professionals and government institutions working on the subject area attended the event online and in person. Speakers included leading figures in the field of history and archaeology from Saudi universities and institutions, as well as from global partner organisations.

 

DGDA Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo said: “We are the custodians of a historical area that is fundamentally important to not just the Saudi people, but to the development of the wider region. These research projects serve to highlight that, while uncovering new findings into what sort of society lived here centuries ago.

 

“Each archaeological discovery is another piece of the historical puzzle that we are carefully putting together here in Diriyah. This conference was an opportunity to showcase where we are in this endeavour and has shone light on which areas still need to be explored.”

 

DGDA Chief of Heritage and Culture Adam Wilkinson said: “Archaeological research in Saudi Arabia is a rapidly expanding field, and this conference has been an important step in the journey to co-ordinate our efforts discover and learn more about the ancient and more recent history of this fascinating place.

 

“We were delighted to welcome colleagues from academia, from other giga projects and students, all of whom participated in the discussions.”

 

As a part of Vision 2030, Saudis are embarking on a voyage of cultural rediscovery, with national heritage sites now at the forefront of scholars’ efforts to better understand the Kingdom’s history and to celebrate its achievements.

 

The study and examination of the archaeology of Diriyah and Central Arabia plays a crucial role in helping to achieve this and, as such, is a fitting way to launch DGDA’s ambitious research initiative.-TradeArabia News Service