RIYADH: The Royal Commission for AlUla and its strategic partner, the Saudi International Council on Monuments and Sites, have issued recommendations for protecting people and preserving the nation’s cultural heritage sites.
These recommendations were made during the AlUla Symposium on Fire Risk Management at Historic and Heritage Sites, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
Recently hosted in AlUla, the symposium had 80 national and international experts in fire management and heritage conservation participating. It provided a platform for discussions on fire prevention, mitigation, and response strategies for historic and cultural sites.
These discussions will help guide the development of policies and procedures for AlUla’s cultural landmarks, the SPA reported.
The experts shared best practices, case studies, and technologies, emphasizing an approach that prioritizes the safety of occupants, visitors, surrounding communities, and the sites.
Discussions covered the implementation of fire codes, such as the Saudi Historical Building Code, while respecting the unique character of old buildings and maintaining their structural integrity.
Case studies presented at the event included the 2019 Notre Dame fire, which emphasized the need for comprehensive safety planning and collaboration.
Experts shared practical strategies, including fire risk assessments, community training, and tailored roadmaps for specific locations.
Princess Nouf bint Mohammed bin Fahad, president of the Saudi International Council on Monuments and Sites, emphasized the need for preventative measures.
“Fires pose a serious threat to priceless historical and heritage sites, endangering their authenticity, integrity and the values they represent. The negative effects of fires on these sites remind us of the need to prevent such disasters.”
The recommendations from the symposium will guide the commission’s ongoing efforts to improve fire safety at AlUla’s heritage sites. This supports the broader goals of Vision 2030, and establishing AlUla as a global leader in heritage conservation, the SPA reported.
