Sharjah’s Faya Palaeolandscape has officially joined the UNESCO World Heritage Site list, making it the second location in the UAE to receive this global recognition. The site, located in the central region of Sharjah, is now acknowledged for its continuous record of early human presence that stretches back over 200,000 years.
The landscape preserves 18 distinct archaeological layers, each revealing how humans lived and adapted in arid environments over millennia. What sets Faya apart is its role not just as a migration route, but as a place where people settled and stayed — a rare pattern in prehistoric desert regions.
Excavated over the last 30 years, the site is now recognised by UNESCO as having outstanding universal value for understanding life in ancient Arabia.
Faya’s inclusion on the list was confirmed during the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Paris. It follows more than a decade of research and preparation, with the nomination formally submitted by Sharjah in early 2024. The only other site from the UAE on this prestigious list is Al Ain’s cultural heritage, which was inscribed back in 2011.
The Middle East now has 96 UNESCO World Heritage Sites spread across 18 countries, and the region continues to gain recognition for its cultural and environmental significance. Just earlier this year, two parks in Saudi Arabia were added to the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. This inclusion, along with Faya Palaeolandscape, reinforce the Gulf’s growing presence on the international heritage map.
Planning a local summer escape? After exploring Faya’s historical importance, check out our list of the best indoor activities in Sharjah to stay cool and entertained during the hotter months.
