AlUla, 1 Dhu al-Qi'dah 1447 AH (18 April 2026)

AlUla hosts a permanent exhibition titled "Illuminating Discoveries: The Historical Phases of Dadan", which spotlights the history of Dadan, the ancient capital of the kingdoms of Dadan and Lihyan, through an integrated knowledge experience that documents its archaeological legacy and highlights its place on the map of regional and global heritage.

A Journey Through Time in the Heart of Civilization

The exhibition takes visitors along a rich timeline presenting the details of daily life in Dadan, including traditional crafts and ancient beliefs, along with rock inscriptions, through more than 100 recently discovered artifacts from the Dadan and Umm Daraj sites, excavated under the supervision of international scientific missions.

Rare Pieces Reflecting Civilizational Exchange

The exhibits include a set of rare pieces, such as copper spearheads, statues in the Greek style and Minaean inscriptions documenting extensive commercial activity, reflecting the depth of the region's civilizational interaction and highlighting Dadan's role as a major station on the ancient trade routes.

A Network of Relations Across Civilizations

These discoveries reveal commercial and cultural relations extending from the northwest of the Arabian Peninsula to the civilizations of the Mediterranean, strengthening Dadan's standing as a civilizational center that contributed to the exchange of knowledge and traditions among peoples across the ages.

Documenting Traditional Crafts and Industries

The exhibition also spotlights the development of traditional crafts and industries such as metalwork and textiles, a sign of the depth and continuity of the cultural heritage, as part of the Royal Commission for AlUla's efforts to preserve and develop heritage.

Celebrating World Heritage Day

The exhibition coincides with World Heritage Day, marked on 18 April each year, with the aim of raising awareness of the importance of protecting human heritage and supporting cultural tourism as a source of knowledge and development.

At a Glance

  • Location: AlUla, Saudi Arabia
  • Exhibition: Illuminating Discoveries
  • Subject: the history of Dadan
  • Content: more than 100 artifacts
  • Body: Royal Commission for AlUla
  • Occasion: World Heritage Day