RIYADH: An aerial geophysical survey project, part of the Regional Geological Survey Program implemented by the Saudi Geological Survey, was launched recently in the Asir region, with the support and direct follow-up of Prince Turki bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, governor of the region.
SGS spokesman Tareq Aba Al-Khail said that the project, which is also one of the initiatives of the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program, aims to maximize the added value from the mining sector by gathering high-resolution and reliable geological data for the Arabian Shield.
Data will feed and enrich the content of the national geological database, and will be used to support mineral exploration, which will help in Saudi Arabia’s economic growth and diversify its revenue sources. Data will also serve as a foundation for attracting investments in the mining sector, achieving one of the major goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.
Aba Al-Khail added that in conjunction with this national work, the SGS has called for a workshop to introduce the project, in coordination with the emirate of Asir region and under the direct supervision of the governor of the region.
Prince Turki has issued directions to hold a workshop with leaders of the governorates, heads of centers, employees of the emirate and officials in the Asir region to review the objectives, importance, duration and work of the project.
Aba Al-Khail said that this introductory meeting with officials is a simultaneous and important step to deliver joint awareness introductory media messages to all segments of society in the Asir region about the nature of the project.
“The project seeks to gather geophysical data through devices and sensors by specialized aircraft,” he said, stressing the importance of the support and cooperation of the community of the Asir region for the success of the national mission.
Regional Geological Survey Program Director Wadee Kashghari said that this project is the third phase of aerial surveys implemented by the initiative after Dawadmi Station and Al-Baha Station.
Four low-altitude winged aircraft loaded with magnetometers and radiation instruments will operate in the area for seven hours a day, seven days a week.
He said that other projects within the initiative also have been launched, such as the geochemical survey project from Bisha governorate.
Kashghari said that other projects will be implemented in later stages, such as the geological maps project.
“These projects would allow us to gather various geological data with accurate specifications for the purpose of attracting those interested in mining investment and creating new mining opportunities due to their economic and developmental impact,” he said, underlining that the mining sector is a promising and vital sector for the future of the country and the obtained data will serve the government sectors.
Saudi Arabia launches third aerial geophysical survey in Asir region
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Saudi Arabia launches third aerial geophysical survey in Asir region
- Data will feed and enrich the content of the national geological database
- Four low-altitude winged aircraft loaded with magnetometers and radiation instruments will operate in the area for seven hours a day, seven days a week
Northern Borders rock art reveals ancient life
- Among the most notable remains are stone structures scattered northwest of Arar
- Evidence ranges from the Neolithic era to Islamic times, forming a chronological record
JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders region contains numerous archaeological sites, reflecting a long history of human settlement dating back to early periods, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Among the most notable remains are stone structures scattered northwest of Arar.
Varying in shape, size and design, specialists believe these structures date to the end of the Neolithic period and the beginning of subsequent eras. They are thought to have been used as stone tombs to preserve the remains of the dead.
Evidence ranges from the Neolithic era to Islamic times, forming a chronological record that highlights the diversity of communities that once lived in the region and how they interacted with their natural environment over centuries.
Ajab Al-Otaibi, director general of antiquities at the Heritage Commission, said the stone structures and rock art sites in the Northern Borders region represent an integral part of Saudi Arabia’s national cultural heritage and serve as an important resource for archaeological studies and scientific research.
He highlighted the importance of surveys, documentation and protection efforts to preserve these cultural landmarks as a historical legacy for future generations.
The region is also home to several important rock art sites, such as Shu’ayb Hamer, which features a wide and diverse collection of drawings carved on natural rock surfaces, marking it as a key site that documented early human activity in the area.
The artworks depict scenes of hunting, horsemanship, dancing, daily life and social rituals. They were created using a variety of artistic styles, most notably framed and abstract forms, and produced through different techniques including incizing and pecking, both direct and indirect.
The carvings portray human figures and a range of animals, including camels, horses and gazelles, as well as some wild and predatory species that have long since disappeared.
These images provide insight into the richness of the natural environment in earlier periods and help researchers understand the evolving relationship between humans and their surroundings.
