Riyadh: The Heritage Commission announced that it recorded 23 violations in December 2025 under the Law of Antiquities, Museums and Urban Heritage, as part of its efforts to monitor and protect cultural heritage sites and artifacts across the Kingdom in accordance with relevant regulations and instructions.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the violations included offering artifacts for sale without the required permits, encroachment on archaeological sites through excavation or bulldozing, unauthorized entry to protected sites, and conducting archaeological surveys or excavations without the commission's approval.
These incidents were detected in Riyadh, Madinah, Jeddah, Aseer, and Abha. The commission took the necessary legal and regulatory actions, referring cases to the Public Prosecution and the General Directorate of Public Security, while imposing fines as stipulated by law.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting archaeological sites and artifacts from tampering or encroachment. It called on individuals and digital platforms to comply with regulations and report violations through its regional branches, official social media accounts, or by contacting the unified security operations center at 911.