In one of its scientific sessions, the Security and History Dialogue 2026 turned to the civilizational dimensions of Saudi Arabia's heritage, with archaeologist and ancient languages professor Dr. Saeed bin Fayez Al-Saeed presenting a paper that traced the kingdom's deep historical roots through its archaeological sites and artifacts.
Dr. Al-Saeed revealed that excavations have confirmed human presence on Saudi lands dating back approximately 1.3 million years, citing stone tools found in Al-Shuwayhitiyah in Al-Jouf and Najran, some around one million years old, which reflect early advancements in tool-making techniques. He also noted that discoveries in Tabuk established the presence of camels in the Arabian Peninsula some 120,000 years ago, offering insights into the region's ancient environment and way of life.
The paper highlighted the 'Nefud Finger,' a rare organic human fossil found on the edge of an ancient lake in the Nefud desert, estimated to be 85,000 years old, alongside the Hail site of Sahout, which shows evidence of advanced stone industries and early artistic expression dating back 13,000 years. Dr. Al-Saeed further explained that around 11,000 years ago, climate shifts led to the emergence of settlements such as Masyoun, Al-Natah in Khaybar, and Qaryah in Tabuk, among others in AlUla and Al-Yamama.
He also discussed major urban centers like Tayma, AlUla, Hajar, Najran, Dumat Al-Jandal, Al-Faw, and Hegra, emphasizing their role in the region's civilizational fabric. The talk traced technological milestones, including pottery-making over 8,000 years ago, the advent of the potter's wheel, and iron smelting techniques around 4,000 years ago, which spurred advances in tools, weapons, and ornaments.
Dr. Al-Saeed underscored the kingdom's rich rock art and inscriptions as a visual record of human life, noting sophisticated artistic techniques and an early sculpture school dating back 10,000 years that influenced regional art. He concluded by stressing the importance of Saudi Arabia's archaeological legacy, which the state prioritizes under Vision 2030 for its cultural, economic, and knowledge value in showcasing the kingdom's civilizational depth.