Why Was the Site of Hijr Inscribed in the World Heritage List?

Hijr (Mada'in Salih) was inscribed on the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage List in 2008 as the first Saudi site to be registered. It was included due to its global historical significance, being the largest preserved site of the Nabataean civilization, located in the northwestern part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Hijr Site is rich in well-preserved archaeological evidence, including massive tombs with decorated facades dating from the first century BCE to the first century CE, about fifty inscriptions from the pre-Nabataean era, and cave drawings. According to UNESCO standards, this represents a distinctive testimony to the Nabataean civilization and an exceptional example of their architectural achievements and hydrological expertise, demonstrated by their water wells and the 111 monumental tombs, ninety-four of which are adorned with decorations.