Sharjah Archaeology Authority

The Sharjah Archaeology Authority is the competent government entity responsible for the management, protection, and preservation of the archaeological heritage in the Emirate of Sharjah. It assumes the responsibility of organizing and managing archaeological research and excavation operations, documenting and administrating archaeological sites, and conserving and maintaining archaeological discoveries. Furthermore, it is tasked with conducting scientific studies and research, promoting academic publishing, and forging partnerships with scientific and cultural institutions both locally and internationally. These efforts contribute to safeguarding the Emirate’s civilizational legacy and enriching human knowledge, in strict adherence to international best practices and standards.

The trajectory of institutional archaeological work in the Emirate of Sharjah commenced in 1986. Since then, it has witnessed continuous development in its regulatory and legislative frameworks, culminating in the establishment of a comprehensive legal system. This evolution began with the issuance of the Antiquities Law No. (1) of 1992, followed by the establishment of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority pursuant to Emiri Decree No. (57) of 2016, and advancing to the promulgation of the Cultural Heritage Law in the Emirate of Sharjah No. (4) of 2020. The latter established a comprehensive legislative framework for the management, protection, preservation, and sustainability of cultural heritage, reflecting the Emirate of Sharjah’s vision to build an integrated cultural heritage management system in accordance with optimal international practices and standards.

The Authority assumes a strategic role in the exploration, documentation, and preservation of the Emirate’s archaeological and cultural heritage. This is achieved through the administration of research and excavation projects, the advancement of specialized studies, the application of modern technologies in documentation and conservation, and the continued support of scientific publishing. Furthermore, the Authority actively fosters collaboration with universities, research institutions, museums, and international organizations. These comprehensive endeavors consolidate the Emirate of Sharjah’s position as a pioneering regional center and an active international partner in scientific research and cultural heritage management. Ultimately, this contributes to the production of scientific knowledge, the reinforcement of national identity, and the prominent highlighting of the Emirate’s civilizational contributions to the history of humanity.

Director General's Message

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.

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.

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.

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.

H.E. Eisa Yousif
Director General

Director of the Authority's Message

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.

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.

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.

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.

H.E. Dr. Saeed Abdullah bin Yaarouf Al Naqbi
Director of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority