The Heritage Commission has completed the first season of archaeological survey and excavation at the Souq Dhi al-Majaz site in Makkah, with the participation of a team of Saudi experts, to uncover scientific and historical evidence related to this heritage site.

The work is part of efforts to preserve and protect historical sites, raise awareness of them and make use of them as an important cultural and economic resource that enriches the experience of citizens and pilgrims visiting the area.

The scientific project began with a survey of all visible architectural structures at Souq Dhi al-Majaz, documenting them to understand and identify the functions and nature of the buildings. The findings revealed a series of architectural units of varying sizes and characteristics, believed to be shops attached to service facilities. Most of the units uncovered consist of a main building with two opposing entrances and walls made of large and small stones, with sand and gypsum used as mortar. Some outer rooms surround the main unit.

Specialized excavation projects

The Heritage Commission is expanding the scope of its specialized excavation projects at the sites of historical markets from the pre-Islamic and Islamic periods. These projects aim to provide scientific information about the markets and their intellectual, economic and social roles, and to develop them and equip them with the necessary facilities and services in coordination with the commission's partners and the Pilgrim Experience Program. The sites are intended to enrich the experience of pilgrims and provide them with reliable information about these locations.

These efforts are part of a framework for preserving cultural heritage and developing it sustainably. The commission adopts careful strategies and broad cooperation with local and international partners and international heritage organizations to protect archaeological sites and manage them effectively. This is based on the national culture directions stemming from Saudi Vision 2030 and the commission's strategy under its eighth initiative to identify, protect and restore archaeological sites.