He said that the SCTA, the Al-Ahsa mayoralty and the Irrigation and Drainage Authority in Al-Ahsa are currently working on the collection of information and data required to register Hofuf in the list of World Heritage Sites, before February to be discussed at the World Heritage Committee during its next session.

Adel Al-Mulhim, Al-Ahsa mayor, said: “A new expansion project is under way in the western side of Al-Ahsa Qaisariya Souk, which will be linked to the artisans’ market for showcasing historical handicrafts, besides establishing popular cafes and shops.”

“This new market was designed in a way linked to the history and architecture in Al-Ahsa, which dates back to several historical eras,” he said.

“The Al-Ahsa municipality pays great attention to maintaining the heritage by participating in tourist and heritage gatherings and holding lectures, seminars and exhibitions related to the preservation of heritage.

This is in addition to drawing up future plans to maintain its architectural heritage,” said Al-Mulhim.

He said that the Al-Ahsa historical projects were implemented without any additions or changes, such as the Al-Qaisariya Souk which is in the old architectural style, bringing several awards.

Al-Mulhim pointed out that several heritage projects are 50 percent completed in Al-Ahsa, including the allocation of 40 sites reflecting briefly the region’s heritage at King Abdullah Environmental Park, which includes models of heritage sites such as Al-Madrasah Al-Emiriah ‘Princely School’, Al-Qaisariya, and Bait Al-Baye’a (House of pledge).

He said all departments are ready to support investment projects related to heritage, as heritage and history are the two attractive factors for tourists in various countries.

Residents shop at Al-Qaisariyah.