Riyadh, November 20, 2024 – In a remarkable display of cultural exchange, the Ministry of Culture of Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with the Yemeni Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism, hosted a spectacular celebration of the Yemeni Orchestra at the King Fahad Cultural Centre in Riyadh. This event, which took place on November 19, 2024, was graced by the presence of Assistant Minister of Culture, Rakan Altouq, and Yemen's Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Moammar Al-Eryani. The evening was a celebration of Yemen’s rich musical and cultural heritage, blending the traditional sounds of the region with contemporary compositions, symbolizing the deep cultural connection shared by Saudi Arabia and Yemen.
The cultural celebration featured an outstanding performance by the Yemeni Orchestra, conducted by the renowned Yemeni composer Mohamed Al-Ghoom. The orchestra captivated the audience with two 45-minute segments, showcasing a fusion of melodies from Yemen’s diverse musical traditions. The first segment opened with the vibrant rhythms of Mizmar Al-Habish, a traditional piece, before transitioning to beloved classics such as Nabdh Al-Madhy and Ma Alina. The second half of the performance began with Amwaj Alliqa, gradually building into a medley of songs, including the Yemeni Medley and Ghaddar Allayl, which resonated with the audience. The concert concluded with a powerful rendition of Watani AlHabeeb and Anta Malek, beloved Saudi songs, followed by Yemen’s national anthem, Watan, adding a touch of patriotism to the evening.
Beyond the musical performances, the event also featured exhibitions organized by the Music Commission, one of the 11 sector-specific commissions under the Ministry of Culture. These exhibits displayed traditional Yemeni musical instruments such as the oud, qanun, and simsimiyya, giving attendees a deeper understanding of the region's cultural fabric. In addition, the Saudi Music Memory initiative, which seeks to document and preserve the Kingdom’s musical heritage up to the mid-1980s, was highlighted, alongside the Saudi Trouq initiative, which combined traditional instruments from both Saudi Arabia and Yemen to create a unique musical blend.
Adding further value to the celebration, the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage in Conflict Areas (ALIPH) contributed with a photographic exhibition focused on their efforts to protect and preserve cultural heritage in conflict zones. This collaborative initiative was a testament to the Kingdom's ongoing commitment to fostering cultural exchange and collaboration, both within the region and internationally.
The event not only showcased the immense cultural wealth of Yemen but also emphasized the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s dedication to promoting cultural ties with its neighbors. By bringing together two nations with intertwined histories, the cultural celebration offered an enriching experience, blending music, heritage, and history to highlight the shared cultural legacy between Saudi Arabia and Yemen. The evening was a powerful reminder of the unifying power of music and culture in bringing people together and strengthening bilateral relations.