Fili Fort, Dibba Al Hisn Fort, Wadi Shees included on ICESCO list

This achievement reflects the importance of these sites in strengthening Islamic and human cultural identity and their role in preserving history and heritage for future generations. The announcement was made by the ICESCO Heritage Committee, which registered 91 historical sites and cultural elements on its heritage list, including three significant locations from the Emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.

Both the SAA and Authority for Initiatives Implementation and Infrastructure Development (Mubadara) submitted comprehensive nomination files to ICESCO during the 12th meeting of the Islamic World Heritage Committee, held in Shusha, Azerbaijan, which was celebrated as the Islamic World Cultural Capital for 2024. These files emphasized the archaeological and historical significance of the nominated sites, alongside their architectural elements and reports on their preservation and conservation status. The SAA highlighted the cultural importance of these sites, underscoring their role in reinforcing Islamic cultural identity and preserving human heritage for future generations.

A Crowning Achievement of Sharjah’s Cultural Leadership on Local, Regional, and International Fronts
Eisa Yousif, Director General of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA),, expressed his deepest gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for his generous patronage and unwavering support for Sharjah’s cultural and civilizational heritage preservation efforts, congratulating His Highness on this milestone, which adds to Sharjah’s numerous successes in this domain.  Eisa Yousif expressed his immense pride in the inclusion of these historical archaeological sites in ICESCO's World Heritage List. He stated: "This inclusion is the result of close collaboration with the (Mubadara) in the field of preserving tangible cultural heritage in Sharjah. These sites reflect international recognition of their historical and cultural significance, showcasing Sharjah’s relentless efforts to protect its rich cultural heritage. These are not merely historical landmarks but are integral parts of Sharjah’s and the UAE’s cultural identity. They contribute to enriching human heritage in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, who places the utmost importance on preserving tangible cultural heritage for future generations. This international recognition enhances Sharjah’s position as a global cultural center dedicated to documenting and protecting cultural heritage, ensuring it remains alive in the collective memory of humanity. In this regard, the Sharjah Archaeology Authority plays a vital role in protecting, promoting, and preserving the tangible cultural heritage of Sharjah."

Eisa Yousif emphasized that this recognition is not merely a celebration of the importance of these archaeological sites but a culmination of years of continuous efforts by the SAA in studying, documenting, and presenting them as part of the world’s cultural heritage. He also noted that Dibba Al Hisn Castle, Fili Fort, and Wadi Shees are not just historical places but living testimonies to the interactions of civilizations that have flourished in the region over the centuries. These sites tell stories of societal evolution, trade, and traditions that have shaped the identity of the area.

Dibba Al Hisn Fort
Dibba al-Hisn Fort and Settlement, now listed on the ICESCO Islamic World Heritage List, stand as an exemplary site of cultural exchange and human settlement over five centuries. This site, rich in architectural features and artefacts, reflects a vibrant history where people sought refuge, engaged in trade, and sustained local markets. The fort safeguarded key trade routes, supporting fishing, agriculture, and commerce, with evidence of international trade through artefacts from China, India, and Europe.

The economic and cultural evolution at Dibba al-Hisn highlights its significance in regional and global history. From the 16th century onward, the site became a center of sea-based commerce, bolstered by the production of date molasses and the development of agriculture. Its enduring legacy as a hub of trade and cultural interchange, particularly through its strategic location, makes it an essential historical and heritage site, exemplifying the richness of Sharjah’s cultural heritage on the global stage.

Fili Fort
Fili Fort is distinguished by its strategic position, which has been pivotal in the region’s protection and security throughout history. The surrounding areas of Fili are celebrated for their historic aflaj irrigation system, a vital feature that has sustained life in the desert environment for centuries. The historic Fili Fort was constructed to oversee these crucial water systems and date palm plantations, safeguarding the caravans traveling from Al Dhaid to Al Ain and the Buraimi Oasis, as well as protecting the coastal trade routes of Oman.

Moreover, Fili's location on the caravan route linking the western and eastern coasts of the Arabian Peninsula underscores its role in defending the important Hajar Mountains paths, ensuring the safety of pilgrims and traders alike. Fili’s heritage embodies stories of profound global significance, illustrating its vital role in preserving local communities and securing trade routes. It also sheds light on notable events of the 19th and 20th centuries.

Wadi Shees 
Wadi Shees is located near the eastern coast of the UAE, encompassing the village of Shees, about 17 km from the city of Khor Fakkan and 95 km from Sharjah. The area is known for its natural beauty, characterized by towering mountains and farms irrigated by traditional Aflaj systems—testaments to ancient human ingenuity in water management. The region is also home to rare bird species that still inhabit its farms, with several environmental organizations undertaking efforts to preserve and study them. 

The area boasts notable landmarks such as Al-Istiqama Mosque, Old houses of the village, Castles, and Farms connected to the Traditional Irrigation System (Falaj and Wadi Shees). Shees holds exceptional scientific value on a global scale, reflecting a unique environmental and geographical diversity that blends the Hajar Mountains and Aflaj, resulting in a rich plant cover and a habitat for rare birds and animals. The area is a unique model of environmental diversity and freshwater ecosystems that have helped preserve endangered plants and animals, making it a site of global importance for environmental researchers.

The registration of these sites on the ICESCO list represents an important step towards enhancing cultural awareness and preserving heritage. A total of six files have been included in the Islamic World Heritage List, namely: (Sharjah, the Gateway of the Trucial States, Mleiha Archaeological Site, Al Dhaid Fort and Falaj, Fili Fort, Wadi Shees, and Dibba Al Hisn Fort). This recognition provides these sites with the opportunity to benefit from the necessary support and resources for their preservation and development. Moreover, this registration strengthens cooperation among ICESCO member states, facilitating the exchange of expertise and best practices in the field of cultural heritage protection.