The Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA) has introduced a metaverse platform that allows users to explore Sharjah’s cultural and archaeological heritage.
Named the “Archaeology Centre in the Metaverse,” it is the first platform of its kind in the world.
The platform offers an immersive educational experience, allowing users to visit key archaeological sites in Sharjah virtually. These include rock carvings in Khorfakkan and Kalba, as well as the excavation site known as the “Camel Cemetery.”
The platform provides audio explanations in both English and Arabic. It is currently accessible through Meta Quest, giving worldwide users an interactive way to learn about the region’s rich history.
This is not Sharjah’s first venture into Web3 technology. Last year, the Sharjah Government launched a platform for NFT-based certificates. This shift marks a move away from traditional paper certificates to more secure digital documents.
Additionally, in 2023, Zepeto partnered with Sharjah Media City to enhance virtual innovation and content creation, further emphasizing Sharjah’s focus on digital transformation.
The adoption of Web3 technology is not limited to Sharjah. In June, Digital Dubai, in collaboration with ITU and UNICC, launched the Global Initiative on Virtual Worlds (GIVW). This initiative is aimed at using the metaverse to improve urban planning, tourism, and education.
Dubai has also embraced metaverse technology in its government services. Last year, the Dubai General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) entered the metaverse, providing a virtual platform for service requests and interactions.
This move aligns with Dubai’s broader efforts to develop into a smart city. In 2022, Dubai introduced its Metaverse Strategy, which aims to make the city one of the world’s top 10 metaverse economies, create 40,000 new virtual jobs, and generate $500 million in revenue for the national economy.
