Sharjah Archaeology Authority
Titled "Department of Archaeology and Heritage", under the umbrella of the Department of Culture and Information, Sharjah Archaeology Department was established in 1986 to supervise all the archaeological and heritage sites all over Sharjah emirate and to provide the necessary protection to them; in addition to carrying out the archaeological exploration operations and overseeing the exploration work of the foreign expeditions operating in Sharjah emirate. In 1992, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, member of Supreme Council, ruler of Sharjah emirate, issued the Archaeology Law No. (1) in Sharjah Emirate. The said law includes all the matters related to archaeology and archaeological sites protection and supervision, in addition to fighting the illegal trade and smuggling of the archaeological artifacts. In late 1992, Sharjah Archaeology Department formed a local expedition to explore the archaeological sites, and to coordinate with the foreign exploration expeditions . The local expedition was headed by Dr. Sabah Jassem and it had local members. In 1995, “The Department of Archaeology” was established to manage the Archaeological sites in the emirate, organize the archaeological exploration operations and the process of publication and documentation ,as well as coordination with the relevant government departments and entities. Later on, it was separated from Department of Archaeology. In 2016 ,the sublime Emiri Decree No. 57 of 2016 was issued establishing Sharjah Archaeology Authority – a clear translation of His Highness ruler of Sharjah’s understanding of the importance of archaeology, as being a live witness of civilization, in addition to having everlasting historical records photographing and vocalizing the story of a deeply civilized people of determination who labored and challenged all such difficult environmental circumstances. Never-the-less, they lived and contributed to making history by such huge achievements with such clear marks in the human history and human civilization.
Director General's Message
<p>Guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, may Allah protect him, the Sharjah Archaeology Authority continues its mission to safeguard archaeological heritage and consolidate Sharjah’s position as a global center for scientific research and knowledge in the fields of archaeology and cultural heritage.</p> <p>The Authority adopts an integrated strategy founded upon scientific research, in-depth studies, innovation, and digital transformation. This approach facilitates the documentation and management of archaeological sites in accordance with global best practices. Furthermore, it fosters archaeological discoveries, drives knowledge production, supports academic publishing, and establishes effective partnerships with universities, institutions, and research centers both domestically and internationally.</p> <p>Moreover, the Authority is committed to investing in national competencies, cultivating an institutional work environment predicated on quality and sustainability, and enhancing societal awareness regarding the value of cultural heritage as a fundamental pillar of national identity and a catalyst for cultural development.</p> <p>We firmly believe that the preservation of heritage extends beyond mere conservation; it encompasses its strategic utilization in building knowledge, anticipating the future, and firmly establishing Sharjah as a global paradigm in the integrated management of cultural heritage. This vision aligns seamlessly with the objectives of sustainable development and reflects the Emirate’s civilizational role on both regional and international levels.</p> <p>H.E. Eisa Yousif<br /> Director General</p>
Director of the Authority's Message
<p>The Sharjah Archaeology Authority stands as a pioneering scientific institution in the realm of archaeological research and the preservation of cultural heritage. It operates in strict alignment with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, may Allah protect him, which aims to cement the Emirate’s stature as a global epicenter for culture and knowledge.</p> <p>The Authority endeavors to manage and protect archaeological sites in accordance with the highest international standards. It actively seeks to advance scientific research through systematic excavation operations, rigorous academic studies, and scholarly publishing. Additionally, it employs modern technologies and artificial intelligence in the documentation and management of cultural heritage, thereby contributing to the advancement of human knowledge and the preservation of our civilizational legacy for future generations.</p> <p>The Authority maintains the conviction that the success of archaeological endeavors relies entirely upon the integration of robust institutional management, academic scientific research, strategic local and international partnerships, the capacity building of national cadres, and the promotion of public awareness regarding the profound significance of cultural heritage as a cornerstone of national identity and sustainable cultural development.</p> <p>We persistently continue our efforts to solidify Sharjah’s position as a pivotal hub for archaeological studies, and as a premier platform for knowledge production and the exchange of expertise, ultimately reflecting the Emirate’s profound history and its enduring civilizational contributions to the trajectory of humanity.</p> <p>H.E. Dr. Saeed Abdullah bin Yaarouf Al Naqbi<br /> Director of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority</p>
Organizational structure of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority
