Sheikha Bodour thanks Unesco for historic honour to Sharjah’s Faya, marking a powerful new chapter in the global recognition of the UAE’s ancient heritage. Her heartfelt message of gratitude highlights not just a personal sentiment, but a national milestone that reaffirms the UAE’s cultural depth and dedication to preservation.
The Faya archaeological site, located in the Mleiha region of Sharjah, was recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. This decision was described by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi as “deeply significant” in preserving the UAE’s identity, legacy, and contribution to early human civilisation.
Sharjah’s Faya A Window to Ancient Civilisation
The Faya area is widely recognised as one of the most important archaeological sites in the Arabian Peninsula. With findings that date back to over 125000 years ago, it provides crucial evidence of some of the earliest human migrations out of Africa. Artefacts and tools discovered in Faya have reshaped scholarly understanding of ancient human activity in the Gulf region.
Sharjah’s commitment to preserving its rich past was internationally acknowledged when UNESCO recognised Faya’s value to the history of humankind. Sheikha Bodour, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) and prominent cultural advocate, expressed her appreciation in a statement that resonated with pride, vision, and gratitude.
A Milestone for UAE’s Cultural Diplomacy
Sheikha Bodour’s thanks to UNESCO are not just ceremonial. They reflect a broader vision for the UAE’s cultural diplomacy. In her message, she emphasised the importance of global recognition in strengthening national identity and promoting intercultural understanding.
“This honour is not only a recognition of the ancient past of the UAE but also a testament to Sharjah’s ongoing dedication to safeguarding our archaeological and cultural treasures for future generations,” she said.
Her statement underlined the role of cultural heritage in national development and international partnerships. It positions Sharjah and by extension the UAE as a regional leader in heritage conservation, sustainability, and education.
The Journey to Unesco Recognition
The inclusion of Faya on UNESCO’s tentative list did not happen overnight. Years of careful excavation, documentation, and international collaboration went into the application process. The Sharjah Archaeology Authority, working with global research institutions, played a crucial role in identifying, protecting, and promoting Faya’s value.
The support of Sheikha Bodour and other Emirati leaders has been pivotal. Their vision aligned perfectly with UNESCO’s mission to preserve global heritage for the benefit of humanity.
“This journey was driven by passion, knowledge, and persistence. Today, we celebrate a moment that connects our past to our future,” Sheikha Bodour stated.
The Global Significance of Faya
Why is the Unesco recognition of Faya so historic The site provides compelling evidence of early human migration routes that challenged previously accepted theories. Until the discoveries at Faya, it was believed that early humans only left Africa via a northern route through the Levant. However, findings in Faya suggested that southern routes through the Arabian Peninsula may have been used, reshaping the narrative of human evolution.
UNESCO’s honour to Faya positions the UAE as a key player in global archaeological research. It also encourages continued exploration of the region’s role in world history, something Sheikha Bodour is keen to promote through education and public engagement.
Cultural Identity and National Pride
Sheikha Bodour’s thanks are deeply rooted in her long standing advocacy for cultural preservation and literacy. As the founder of Kalimat Foundation and the former President of the International Publishers Association, she has championed numerous initiatives aimed at empowering youth and preserving language, history, and heritage.
By thanking UNESCO, she is spotlighting how cultural milestones like Faya can reinforce national pride while enhancing the UAE’s global reputation as a nation that values its roots.
“Culture is the foundation of our identity. It is through such recognition that we find the strength to move forward, more confident in who we are and what we can offer the world,” she added.
What This Means for Future Generations
One of the most inspiring aspects of Sheikha Bodour’s message is her focus on the future. By preserving and promoting Faya, the UAE ensures that younger generations grow up aware of their heritage. Schools, museums, and educational programs are expected to incorporate more learning about the significance of Sharjah’s ancient past.
Already, local initiatives are underway to create interactive experiences for students and visitors. From augmented reality tours to excavation workshops, the recognition by UNESCO is sparking innovation in heritage education across the emirate.
This moment is not just about preserving the past, it is about inspiring the next wave of archaeologists, historians, and cultural leaders.
International Reaction and Impact
The response from international cultural institutions has been overwhelmingly positive. Archaeologists, historians, and scholars around the world have praised the UAE for its efforts to highlight the significance of Faya. Many see it as a sign that the Gulf region is becoming a hub for cultural tourism and academic research.
UNESCO’s decision is expected to boost tourism to Mleiha and Sharjah at large. With increasing global attention, the area will likely see enhanced infrastructure, guided tours, and museum projects, all designed to educate and attract visitors while preserving the integrity of the site.
Closing Thoughts A Powerful Message of Gratitude
Sheikha Bodour thanks UNESCO for historic honour to Sharjah’s Faya in a way that blends elegance, pride, and responsibility. Her message resonates far beyond the UAE, echoing a universal truth, when a nation honours its past, it builds a stronger future.
Her leadership not only celebrates Sharjah’s ancient legacy but also positions the emirate as a model for cultural preservation in the modern world. Through her words, the recognition of Faya becomes more than an achievement, it becomes a promise to future generations that the story of humanity will be remembered, respected, and retold with pride.
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