Sharjah Archaeology Authority launches platform in Metaverse

The move offers users of all ages an immersive journey into the world of history through a unique and interactive experience

The Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA) has launched its groundbreaking project, Archaeology in the Metaverse Centre, the first of its kind globally dedicated to cultural heritage on the Metaverse platform. This initiative marks a significant step in enhancing the exploration of Sharjah’s cultural and archaeological heritage, offering users of all ages an immersive journey into the world of history through a unique and interactive experience combining education and entertainment.

ROCK ART AND HISTORICAL DISCOVERIES: The application provides an enriching educational experience that allows users to interact with Sharjah’s most prominent archaeological sites. These include exploring the rock art in Khorfakkan and Kalba, simulating archaeological excavations at the Camel Graveyard, and restoring historical coin treasures discovered in Mleiha. With dual-language voice descriptions in Arabic and English, the app ensures accessibility and understanding for a broad audience, offering insights into the preservation of cultural discoveries.

A PIVOTAL STEP TOWARDS GLOBAL CULTURAL AWARENESS: Eisa Yousif, Director General of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA), said: “The launch of the Archaeology in the Metaverse Center represents a pivotal step within SAA’s strategic vision to leverage technology in raising cultural awareness and connecting global communities through an innovative digital platform. This project exemplifies our vision of blending innovation with archaeological heritage, offering a unique opportunity to bridge generations and diverse cultures through an interactive experience that fosters global cultural dialogue. Users from around the world can explore Sharjah’s rich cultural heritage in an innovative way, further cementing Sharjah’s position as a global cultural hub and reflecting our ongoing commitment to enriching visitor experiences through technology.”

A RICH DATABASE SHOWCASING SHARJAH’S ARTEFACTS: The application features an extensive database of artefacts discovered in Sharjah, allowing users to browse and search its contents using various criteria, including time period, material type, or discovery location. This enables direct interaction with ancient historical elements, making the past accessible to a global audience.

Everyone is encouraged to download and explore the app via the official link: Sharjah Archaeology Metaverse Center. This innovative platform offers a comprehensive and inclusive experience designed to meet the aspirations of diverse community groups, combining cutting-edge technology with Sharjah’s timeless heritage.

Recently, H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, received a team of international archaeology experts at the Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi Centre.

During the meeting, attended by Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Ambassador for the international nomination file for the Al Fayha Heritage Site, discussions revolved around the significant archaeological, historical, and diverse topographical features of the Mleiha region.

Additionally, the efforts of the emirate of Sharjah in preserving archaeological sites, ongoing excavation operations, and the non-interference and development within heritage areas to ensure compliance with the regulations and laws of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) were addressed.

Sharjah Ruler emphasised that Al Fayha region is one of the most significant sites of the Stone Age in the Arabian Peninsula and the world, bearing substantial evidence regarding the history of early human migration. Abounding in numerous archaeological discoveries, it is poised for inclusion on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

He pointed out that the objective of listing Al Fayha region as a World Heritage Site is to preserve the cultural heritage for future generations, share it with the world, and promote it.

Al Fayha mountain site is considered an exceptional example of the desert environment during the Stone Age, documenting early human settlement in the area from the beginnings of the Middle Stone Age to the Stone Age, amid changing climatic conditions in the Arabian Peninsula. Studies of the historical and environmental layers at the site have documented the continuity of human settlement for 210,000 years.