Saudi ICOMOS and RCU Organize an International Symposium on Conservation of Rupestrian Heritage Sites in November 2025

The Saudi National Committee of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS Saudi Arabia) and the Royal Commission for AlUla are organizing the AlUla International Symposium on Sustainable Conservation of Rocky Heritage Sites. which will be held in AlUla from November 25-27, 2025.

Rock mechanics experts are scheduled to participate in the symposium. and engineering geology. and earth sciences in general. In addition to specialists in heritage conservation and managers of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, monuments and sites affected by geohazards.

The symposium aims to promote dialog and scientific exchange in the field of sustainable conservation of rock heritage sites. Presenting case studies and technical innovations in geological and environmental risk management. Encourage collaboration between experts from the fields of conservation, geology, engineering and heritage management.

The symposium will explore several topics in the field of sustainable conservation of rock heritage sites. Most notably the preservation of rock art and rock heritage affected by geologic hazards and the characterization of rock masses. and remote sensing applications. monitoring and control. climate change, weathering. and advanced modeling. and innovative geophysical studies.

The symposium also features detailed investigations of sites affected by fast- and slow-onset geologic hazards. such as rock slope instability, heavy rains, aerial erosion, weathering, high water tables, etc. As well as strategies for conservation and preservation.

AlUla was chosen as the location for the international event due to its exceptional rock heritage. including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al-Hajar. which includes massive Nabataean tombs carved into the sandstone cliffs. In addition to the ancient cities of Dadan and Lahyan in Khuraybah. The rock art and carvings at Jebel Akma.