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Look: From ancient forts to desert rock art, 5 UAE sites added to Islamic heritage list
The newly listed locations span Dubai and Sharjah, covering archaeological discoveries, early mining activity and centuries-old coastal defences
- PUBLISHED: Sun 15 Feb 2026, 3:48 PM
UAE forts and towers, desert excavation sites, early settlement landscapes, copper-mining valleys and rock-art enclaves have been added to an Islamic world heritage list.
The Ministry of Culture announced that five sites across Dubai and Sharjah have been inscribed on the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) List of Islamic World Tangible Heritage during the 13th session of the Islamic World Heritage Committee, held in Uzbekistan.
Saruq Al Hadid
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Located about 95km from the city, Saruq Al Hadid was identified in 2002 after Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum noticed dark patches in the sand dunes during a flight. The patches were later confirmed to be metallurgical slag from ancient smelting.
Studies indicate the site dates back to the Early Bronze Age (2600 BCE) and remained active until the Late Iron Age (550 BCE). Excavations have uncovered bronze, pottery and stone tools, weapons, gold and silver ornaments, seals, beads and metal snake figures.
Archaeologists classify it as a mining and metal production site in the south-eastern Arabian Peninsula.
Historic towers and forts of Khor Fakkan
The historic towers and forts of Khor Fakkan were inscribed as part of a defensive system associated with the city’s harbour.
These include the Portuguese Fort and Al Adwani Tower. The structures date from the 14th to the 20th century and were used to protect the port. The Portuguese Fort is identified as the only surviving triangular-shaped fort in the eastern Arabian Peninsula.
Al Nahwa
Located south of Khor Fakkan, Al Nahwa was inscribed for its archaeological record.
The site features rock carvings dating from the Bronze Age to modern times. The carvings have been documented using three-dimensional digital technologies as part of preservation efforts.
Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture and Chairperson of the National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, said: “The inscription of these new sites on the List of Islamic World Tangible Cultural Heritage marks a significant milestone that reflects the depth and richness of the UAE’s cultural heritage, as well as the country’s commitment to protecting and preserving its historical sites.
Faya Palaeolandscape
In Sharjah’s central region, the Faya Palaeolandscape was inscribed as a record of early human settlement.
The site contains archaeological evidence used to document human presence and activity in the region across different historical periods.
Wadi Al Helo
Wadi Al Helo in the Eastern Region was recognised for evidence of copper mining during the transitional period from the Neolithic era.
The valley includes remains linked to the development of copper extraction techniques. It also contains Bronze Age rock carvings and the remains of historic villages. Authorities describe it as reflecting the relationship between its inhabitants and the surrounding environment.
“We will continue to strengthen the presence of Emirati heritage on international heritage lists by documenting our historical sites and supporting initiatives that promote heritage sustainability and ensure its protection for future generations.”
As Associate Editor, Sahim Salim helps tell the UAE story like no one else does — and leads a team of reporters that asks the questions to get news and headlines that matter.