Heritage Horizon

Heritage Horizon is a specialised training programme, delivered by the School of Arts at SOAS in partnership with the Saudi Heritage Commission.     

The programme was designed to equip 15 Saudi researchers and professionals working in universities and the cultural heritage sector with the knowledge and skills to enhance the impact of their research and publication. 

The programme brought together interdisciplinary research across the heritage sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including researchers in archaeology, handicrafts, intangible cultural heritage, urban heritage, as well as heritage management and protection.  

Over the course of the programme, participants were initially taught by SOAS academics in Riyadh before continuing their studies online. This included virtual sessions with academic mentors and participation in modules offered by the SOAS Doctoral School. The programme culminated in a week-long workshop at SOAS in May 2026, featuring panels, masterclasses, and visits to heritage sites such as Leighton House, the British Library, and Hampton Court Palace.

At the end of the workshop, participants presented their research papers and shared insights from their work. Heritage Horizon: Issue 01 (2026) brings together these finalised papers.

Image courtesy of the Saudi Heritage Commission.