Abu dhabi: The UNESCO World Heritage Committee is set to convene its 48th session in Busan, Republic of Korea, from July 20 to 29, 2026, with an opening ceremony planned for July 19. This session will focus on evaluating nominations for the inclusion of 30 new sites on the World Heritage List. In addition, the committee will consider proposals related to three sites already on the list and review the conservation status of 147 sites currently inscribed. According to Emirates News Agency, the World Heritage Committee has, to date, inscribed 1,248 sites across 170 countries. The UNESCO World Heritage status is awarded to sites of Outstanding Universal Value, whether they are natural, cultural, or mixed, to ensure their protection and preservation for both present and future generations. This recognition encourages member states to maintain the integrity of these sites through sustainable management and restoration. The designation of World Heritage sites significantly contributes to the development of respons ible tourism, which boosts local economies and raises public awareness of cultural diversity's importance. Additionally, listed sites have shown effectiveness in the long-term protection of natural heritage and biodiversity.