AlUla launches new archaeology season to explore ancient settlements and heritage

ALULA, Saudi Arabia, Oct 21 (ABC): The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has launched its 2026–2027 archaeology season across AlUla and Khaybar, with research focusing on early human presence, ancient kingdoms, oasis societies and historic pilgrimage and trade routes.
According to a press release, the programme builds on previous years of excavation, documentation and conservation to deepen understanding of north-west Arabia’s archaeological landscape.
Key research themes include environmental history, water management, inscriptions, material culture and daily life. The work will connect evidence across sites and historical periods to examine how communities lived, developed and interacted with their surroundings.
At Hegra, researchers will study the ancient settlement centre, including plant and animal remains and archaeological finds, to better understand life at the site across different periods.
In Dadan, the second phase of the Dadan Archaeological Project builds on the findings of the preceding five-year project. Research will focus on funerary and residential areas to examine the development of one of AlUla’s most important ancient centres.
In Khaybar, studies will explore the relationship between people and the oasis over time. The work covers the Neolithic, or New Stone Age, Khaybar’s history during Islamic periods, sedimentary records, ancient environments and the natural resources that influenced human settlement and cultural change.
Research in South AlUla will examine historic movement routes, including pilgrimage and trade networks, forts, railway stations and associated archaeological remains. The studies aim to shed light on the connections between the region and its surroundings.
Written heritage remains another major focus. According to RCU, more than 25,000 inscriptions have been recorded in AlUla, providing an important record of north-west Arabia’s history, languages and cultural interactions.
Specialist studies will also examine animal remains, ceramics, qanat water systems and oasis water management to develop a fuller understanding of everyday life in the region.
The season includes training and practical experience for Saudi researchers and university students through fieldwork, laboratory analysis, specialist studies and digital documentation. Saudi and international experts from collaborating institutions will mentor participating students.
Community activities will connect archaeological research with local knowledge through practical sessions, museum and laboratory experiences, and site visits involving teachers, students, local storytellers known as Rawis, and rangers.
RCU said the programme forms part of its wider efforts to preserve cultural heritage, advance scientific research and strengthen AlUla and Khaybar’s roles as centres for archaeological research and cultural exchange.
The initiative also supports Saudi Vision 2030’s objectives to safeguard national heritage, promote cultural identity and share the Kingdom’s heritage with the world.