Riyadh, December 5, 2024 – In a remarkable cultural achievement, Saudi Arabia has successfully inscribed the cultural practices related to the Taif rose on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's (UNESCO) Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. This announcement, made by Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, the Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Heritage Commission, highlights the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting its unique cultural heritage globally.
The inscription of the Taif rose practices represents a momentous recognition of Saudi Arabia's rich cultural traditions, underscoring the historical and social significance of this distinctive element of the Kingdom's heritage. Prince Badr emphasized that this accomplishment was made possible by the unlimited support of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, who have played a pivotal role in elevating Saudi Arabia's cultural prominence on the international stage. This inscription also underscores the Kingdom’s dedication to preserving intangible cultural heritage, ensuring its continued relevance for future generations, and reinforcing its commitment to sustainable cultural practices.
The Taif rose joins a prestigious list of other elements of Saudi intangible cultural heritage that have already been inscribed by UNESCO, such as the traditional art of Alardah, Majlis, falconry, Arabic coffee, and the Sadu weaving technique. The Taif rose, with its centuries-old cultivation and processing traditions, forms an integral part of the region’s social and cultural fabric. Its cultivation is not only an agricultural practice but a vital cultural tradition, deeply embedded in the daily lives of the people of Taif. Community members gather annually in the rose fields to participate in the harvest, creating a shared space for social interaction, the transfer of agricultural knowledge, and the celebration of cultural practices passed down through generations.
The products derived from the Taif rose, particularly rose water and essential oils, hold immense cultural significance, playing a central role in various local traditions and social events. These products are widely used in celebrations, such as weddings and religious ceremonies, further embedding the Taif rose in the social and cultural practices of the region. The annual Taif Rose Festival, a vibrant celebration of the harvest, attracts both residents and visitors, offering them a chance to celebrate the local community’s heritage, showcase their rose-derived products, and foster pride in their cultural identity.
The UNESCO recognition of the Taif rose underscores the global importance of this cherished aspect of Saudi culture and its profound connections to social traditions. This inscription not only elevates Saudi Arabia’s cultural standing but also promotes international cultural exchange. It aligns seamlessly with the Heritage Commission’s ongoing efforts to preserve the Kingdom's cultural heritage and promote cultural diplomacy, which is an essential objective of the National Strategy for Culture under the framework of Saudi Vision 2030.
Prince Badr highlighted that the inscription of the Taif rose with UNESCO reflects Saudi Arabia’s dedication to safeguarding its cultural legacy and strengthening its role as a global cultural hub. The success of this project reinforces the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing its cultural sector, ensuring that these vital traditions are preserved and celebrated for future generations.