Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The Heritage Commission signed on Wednesday a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Elm, a leading digital solutions company, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

As part of the agreement, the digital solutions company will support the commission in protecting heritage sites through the use of digital systems and technical programs) of heritage sites as well as in running along with the smart operation of the sites and enhancement of the visitor experience.

Commenting on the agreement, Minister of Culture Prince Badr Bin Abdullah Bin Farhan, who is also the chairman of the Board of Directors of the Heritage Commission, said: “With technology, the protection and management of archaeological and heritage sites is entering a new phase. Our monuments, heritage and culture are precious.”

The MoU was signed by Jasir Al-Herbish, the CEO of the Heritage Commission and Abdulrahman Al-Jadhai, the CEO of Elm, at the authority’s headquarters in King Abdul Aziz Historical Center in Riyadh.

The MoU includes conducting consultative studies to determine the current status of the protection of antiquities and urban heritage of archaeological and heritage sites in the Kingdom, as well as measuring the level of awareness of local communities about the importance of preserving heritage.

It will study global methods for managing and operating cultural heritage sites to enhance the visitor’s experience by providing him the best possible services.

The MoU also includes the cooperation of Elm Company with the authority in implementing the system of antiquities, museums and urban heritage issued by a royal decree.

The memorandum reflects the Heritage Commission to protect, manage and sustainably develop cultural heritage sites and resources in Saudi Arabia, and to encourage the development and production of cultural heritage content through partnerships with government and private sector organizations.