SAUDI ARABIA
International Conference on CombatTing Illicit Trafficking in Cultural Property
29-30 October 2025, riyadh
On 29-30 October 2025, NOSTOS Strategies was invited to attend the “Conference on Combatting Illicit Trafficking in Cultural Property”, hosted by the Heritage Commission, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The conference brought together experts, researchers, and decision-makers to discuss current issues, review international best practices, and propose practical solutions to enhance mechanisms for the protection and restitution of illicitly trafficked cultural property. The conference aimed to showcase Saudi Arabia’s commitment to protecting its civilisational legacy, and to develop effective strategies to curb the illicit trafficking of cultural property and establish a sustainable approach which balances heritage preservation with development needs.
In particular, experts discussed:
National and international laws and regulations related to the protection of cultural property, existing gaps, and proposed areas for improvement.
The role of intergovernmental agencies and law enforcement entities in combating illicit trafficking of cultural property.
Ways to strengthen cooperation between countries and international institutions to combat illicit trafficking.
Speeches were delivered by His Excellency Dr. Jasir AL-Herbish, CEO of the Heritage Commission, His Excellency Mr. Asim Al-Tuwaijri, Deputy for Legal Affairs and Regulations, and Ms. Krista Pikkat, UNESCO Director for Culture and Emergencies.
Conference attendees were also given a private tour of At-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in ad-Dir'iyah, a preserved mud-brick city that was the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the original home of the House Al Saud.
The conference received coverage in Arab News.
