Arabic version: سيدي بوسعيد تكتسب صفة التراث العالمي لدى اليونسكو

According to France 24, UNESCO recognised Tunisia’s town of Sidi Bou Said as a world heritage site in July. The designation opens what the report describes as a new period for cultural preservation in the historic tourist site.

Sidi Bou Said’s new status could support efforts to protect the town as it faces erosion. France 24 noted that flooding in January illustrated the threat posed by erosion, placing preservation concerns alongside the recognition of the site’s cultural significance.

The UNESCO designation may also help bring attention to traditions that are less widely known outside the town: its Sufi mystical practices. France 24 reported from Sidi Bou Said on the Kharja ceremonies, which take place there from mid-August until the end of September.

France 24 journalists Lilia Blaise and Hamdi Tlili reported from the ceremonies. The broadcaster’s video report was issued on September 1, 2026, and focused on the new heritage recognition, preservation issues and the town’s Sufi traditions.