JEDDAH: The Heritage Commission recorded 20 violations of the Antiquities and Urban Heritage Law at cultural sites and on social media platforms in March.
The violations were detected in Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, Asir, Tabuk, Qassim and Jouf.
They included encroaching on protective fencing at an archeological site and using heavy equipment, publishing inaccurate information about archeological locations on social media, and trespassing on sites through excavation, damage and removal.
Other offenses involved conducting archaeological surveys and sharing related content without a license, as well as possessing cultural artifacts and displaying them on online platforms without obtaining the required permits.
The commission said violators were referred to the relevant authorities to complete the necessary legal procedures.
Members of the public can report violations through the Archeological Reporting Service or by calling the National Security Operations Center on 911.
According to the Heritage Commission, the National Register of Antiquities serves as the Kingdom’s official digital repository for cataloguing and documenting cultural heritage sites and historical monuments.
The register consolidates archeological data through integrated databases, digital archeological maps, and a comprehensive archive of drawings, photographs and technical reports.
The initiative aims to enhance the management, preservation and protection of heritage sites through advanced digital mapping technologies.
It also seeks to establish a unified and integrated spatial database covering cultural heritage locations across the Kingdom.
The register documents all fieldwork and activities conducted at archeological sites, while systematically archiving related photographs and official documentation.
In addition, it supports the development of applied digital solutions designed to improve sector management and strengthen decision-making processes.
Access to the platform is provided in accordance with specific permissions and regulatory frameworks to ensure the responsible use of heritage information.
