JEDDAH: A new documentary analyzing the importance of the discovery of the 18th-century Umluj shipwreck, just off the coastline of the Red Sea, has been unveiled.
“Submerged” is a 10-minute film featuring Heritage Commission experts. It follows the first fully Saudi-led marine archaeological mission to uncover and document the shipwreck, in cooperation with the Jeddah Historical Program.
The screening, at the Cultural Square in the Jeddah Historical District, was attended by Saudi archeologists, historians, academics, and representatives of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and King Abdulaziz University, along with other specialists and those interested in cultural affairs.
According to the Heritage Commission, the film aims to introduce underwater cultural heritage and highlight its importance, as well as shed light on efforts in the areas of marine research, documentation and protection. It is also hoped it will enhance community awareness of the value of this type of heritage and support its presence as a growing field of knowledge and culture.
Dr. Maged Al-Anizi, director of the Underwater Cultural Heritage department at the Saudi Heritage Commission, told Arab News: “This short, 10-minute documentary takes us on an exploratory journey to the depths of the Red Sea, revealing a hidden world that harbors a submerged human heritage yet to be fully explored.”
Describing the expedition as “unprecedented,” he added: “It is a journey to discover our submerged heritage in the Red Sea. Accompanied by a team of researchers and explorers, we dive into the depths of the sea to uncover buried historical artifacts, such as sunken ships, pottery pieces, and archaeological remains that hold stories from the past.”
Al-Anizi said the film focused on the challenges faced by the team during underwater excavations, highlighting research and documentation techniques, and asking how this cultural heritage can be preserved.
“Between discoveries and dangers, the film reshapes our relationship with our maritime history, posing the question: What still lies hidden in the depths of our seas?” he said. “The Umluj shipwreck is considered as one of the most important sites discovered. It is an archeological treasure.”
Al-Anizi revealed that over 2,000 jars were discovered in the ship. The film was an exploratory documentary experience that addressed the efforts of research teams and divers in monitoring the archaeological evidence hidden beneath the waters of the Red Sea, he said.
As part of the screening, there was an exhibition of artifacts recovered from the wreck, offering visitors a more in-depth look at the shipwreck.
The wreck is located 16 miles from the city of Umluj on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast. Lying at a depth of 22 meters, it was discovered by chance about 20 years ago.
The ship sank around the mid-18th century. Its cargo consisted of jars and several large storage vessels, likely used for transporting water and foodstuffs, as well as hundreds of small porcelain cups and bowls.
