RCU Launches New Publication On Umm Daraj And Lihyan Kingdom Heritage In AlUla
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RIYADH, July 6 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) - The Royal Commission for AlUla has launched “Umm Daraj: Beacon of the Lihyan Kingdom,” a new publication by Dr. Hussein bin Ali Abu Al Hassan documenting one of AlUla’s significant archaeological sites associated with the Lihyan Kingdom.
The book, available in Arabic, English and French, forms part of RCU’s efforts to preserve and document AlUla’s cultural heritage, support specialist knowledge in archaeology and history, and make scientific research accessible to scholars and heritage enthusiasts.
The publication focuses on Umm Daraj, a site dating to the third and second centuries BCE. It presents the results of studies and fieldwork conducted at the site, along with archaeological discoveries and scientific evidence related to AlUla’s history and successive civilizations.
Among the site’s main features is a stone staircase described in the publication as one of the longest known ancient stairways in the region. The book said the structure reflects planning, construction expertise and adaptation to the rocky landscape during that period.
The publication also examines architectural remains, Lihyanite inscriptions, stone carvings and archaeological finds from Umm Daraj. It documents readings, translations and interpretations of inscriptions discovered at the site, contributing to research on the history and cultural legacy of the Lihyan Kingdom.
RCU said the site is one of the principal locations illustrating AlUla’s prosperity during the first millennium BCE, with evidence of human, cultural and economic activity in northwest Arabia.
The publication aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and AlUla Vision, which seek to share AlUla’s heritage with the world and strengthen research into the history of northwest Arabia.
The book will be available at three RCU sales outlets in AlUla: the RCU Store in AlUla Old Town, the Gift Shop at Hegra and AlUla International Airport.