| Egyptian Journal of Archeological and Restoration Studies

Authors:
Amer, M. ¹ , ² , Sabri, R. ² & Nofal, E. ² , <sup>3

1</sup> Egyptology dept., Faculty of Archaeology, Aswan Unive., Aswan, Egypt
² Architectural Engineering dept., Faculty of Engineering, Sharjah Univ. Sharjah, UAE
³ Architectural Engineering dept., Faculty of Engineering, Assiut Univ., Assiut, Egypt

Abstract:
Egypt is home to numerous heritage sites of Outstanding Universal Value, yet only seven have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Egypt currently has 34 sites on its Tentative List. However, no new site has been inscribed since 2005. Among these is Abydos, a major cultural and religious center, which has remained on the tentative list since 2003 due to persistent challenges in the nomination process. This study investigates the governance, resource, and conservation challenges hindering Abydos’ nomination, drawing from semi-structured interviews with officials, site managers, and World Heritage experts. Thematic analysis highlights key barriers such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, fragmented stakeholder coordination, and development pressures. Findings also point to the exclusion of stakeholders, limited resources, and inadequate conservation management, which have delayed progress. The article emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced governance, stakeholder collaboration, and a structured nomination strategy to safeguard Egypt’s cultural heritage and elevate its global recognition.

Keywords:
World heritage sites (WHS) UNESCO Abydos Egypt Heritage management Nomination process

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