Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 12 September 2023: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Chair of the 45th UNESCO World Heritage Committee, is hosting the extended 45th Session Held from 10th to 25th September in Riyadh. This will be the first in-person session of the World Heritage Committee in four years.

Composed of representatives from 21 States Parties elected by the General Assembly, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee is responsible for the implementation of the World Heritage Convention, the use of the World Heritage Fund, the decision on sites inscribed on the World Heritage List, and the state of conservation of World Heritage Sites. 

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was unanimously elected by representatives of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee to be the chair of the 45th UNESCO World Heritage Committee and to hold the extended 45th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The decision acknowledges the Kingdom’s prominent role in supporting global efforts in heritage preservation and protection, in line with the goals of UNESCO. 

The UNESCO World Heritage Committee commenced with an opening ceremony, which was held at the historic Al Murabba Palace. A dazzling display themed “Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow” was put on for guests, and served to highlight the importance of protecting and celebrating culture and heritage as the world modernises and transforms for a better future. 

His Highness Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Farhan Al Saud, Saudi Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Saudi National Commission For Education, Culture and Science said, “Saudi Arabia is pleased to host the extended 45th session of the World Heritage Committee. Heritage is core to Saudi Arabia’s identity, and a unifier of the nation and the world. The Kingdom’s contributions to this important international dialogue demonstrates our commitment to preserving culture and heritage for generations to come. Alongside UNESCO and partners, we look forward to facilitating greater global collaboration and collective capacity-building in safeguarding global cultural heritage, to achieve our shared vision of global sustainable development.”

Saudi Arabia is home to vast heritage and diverse culture. Currently, Saudi Arabia is home to six UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Hegra Archaeological Site (al-Hijr), At-Turaif District in ad-Dir'iyah, Historic Jeddah, Rock Art in the Hail Region, Al-Ahsa Oasis and Ḥimā Cultural Area. One further site in Saudi Arabia is nominated for consideration at this year’s Committee session.