Riyadh, July 15, 2023, In a collaborative effort between the Saudi Press Agency and the Federation of Arab News Agencies (FANA), an intriguing cultural bulletin titled "Saudi Arabia's Unique Civilization and Heritage Promoted by the Culture Ministry" is set to captivate audiences. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia boasts a rich and influential civilization that has left an indelible mark on the values, norms, and traditions of its people. The rich cultural heritage, deeply rooted traditions, diverse natural landscapes, and valuable artistic and literary expressions of the nation have exerted a profound influence on its societal fabric, intellectual pursuits, and scientific advancements. Furthermore, these elements have fostered a deep sense of pride within the local population. Since its establishment half a decade ago, the Ministry of Culture has taken on the crucial role of highlighting the rich cultural and civilizational facets of our nation. In a significant development, on June 2, 2018, a Royal Decree was issued, marking the official establishment of the Ministry of Culture as an independent entity. This move effectively severed its previous ties with the Ministry of Media, granting it autonomy in its operations and decision-making. In a significant development, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud has been appointed to a prominent position within the ministry. This ministry, which made headlines in March 2019, has recently revealed its ambitious vision and strategic plans aimed at preserving the rich historical heritage of the Kingdom. In addition, the ministry has set its sights on utilizing this rich heritage as a means to foster a dynamic cultural landscape. This endeavor not only seeks to improve the overall standard of living and spur economic growth but also aims to elevate the global reputation of the Kingdom. In a momentous announcement, the Ministry revealed its ambitious strategic plan aimed at breathing new life into Saudi culture, fortifying its identity, and preserving its rich heritage. This groundbreaking initiative is in perfect harmony with the visionary goals set forth in Saudi Vision 2030. In a sweeping effort to address a multitude of challenges, a comprehensive approach has been adopted, encompassing a range of initiatives. One such initiative is the establishment of the King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language. In its mission to cultivate the widespread recognition and advancement of the Arabic language, this esteemed institution endeavors to foster both regional and global promotion. In a groundbreaking move, the Red Sea International Film Festival is set to revolutionize the Saudi Arabian film industry. This pioneering event is poised to not only provide vital support to filmmakers but also play a pivotal role in enhancing the local cinematic landscape. In its unwavering dedication to fostering and honoring cultural expression, the Ministry has undertaken various initiatives, including the esteemed Diriyah Biennale, esteemed art academies, and vibrant cultural festivals. These endeavors serve as a testament to the Ministry's steadfast commitment. In a bold and ambitious move, the ministry has set its sights on a momentous goal: to make a substantial and noteworthy contribution of approximately 3% to the nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by the year 2030. With this objective in mind, the ministry is poised to embark on a path of economic growth and development, aiming to leave an indelible mark on the country's financial landscape. The nation's cultural resources will be harnessed and enhanced through the implementation of a range of strategies. In a bid to harness the full potential of their cultural heritage, authorities have devised a series of strategies. These measures aim to expedite the refinement of cultural assets, cultivate a climate of appreciation and active participation among the populace, seamlessly integrate culture into their everyday lives, offer educational initiatives and training workshops, establish dedicated institutes, launch initiatives that empower individuals, and curate a diverse array of cultural events and festivals that safeguard the nation's distinct and genuine identity. The ministry, in its unwavering dedication to nurturing creativity, has formulated ingenious tactics, including the introduction of designated time slots for tailored activities and events. In a momentous announcement, the year 2021 has been officially proclaimed "The Year of Arabic Calligraphy." This declaration shines a spotlight on the rich artistic and cultural heritage that this tradition embodies, tracing its origins back to the Arabian Peninsula and witnessing its remarkable growth and evolution throughout history. In a noteworthy move, the Ministry made a deliberate choice to honor their rich heritage. This was achieved by adorning the T-shirts worn by Saudi footballers with elegant Arabic calligraphy. Additionally, the Ministry extended this tribute to the national identity by incorporating the same calligraphy on the livery of Saudia and Flynas airlines. In the year 2022, a significant focus was placed on the prominence of Saudi coffee, providing a compelling opportunity to delve into the intricate interplay between coffee and the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia. The spotlight has been cast on Khawlani coffee beans, an esteemed agricultural crop known for its exceptional quality. These beans flourish primarily in the southern regions of the Kingdom, with Jazan being a particularly favorable location. In the upcoming year of 2023, a remarkable focus is expected to be placed on the profound importance of Arabic poetry, a literary art form that occupies a pivotal role within the rich tapestry of Arab culture. Poetry, widely acknowledged as a profound wellspring of wisdom and knowledge, has risen to prominence as a significant cornerstone that both influences and mirrors the cultural terrain. The ministry has unveiled a series of initiatives and activities designed to offer support and aid to researchers working in this specific field of study. The cultural landscape of the Kingdom has undergone significant changes, largely thanks to the tireless efforts of influential figures in the field. The nation's cultural landscape has experienced a remarkable surge in activity, creating an ideal environment for arts and culture practitioners to immerse themselves in a myriad of events. This vibrant platform allows them to exhibit their innate talents and showcase their expertise in various fields. The Abdea platform is revolutionizing the way individuals acquire licenses and permits by streamlining the entire process. Cultural activities have been characterized by a notable absence of exclusivity, as they have not been limited to a privileged few. Societal activities are accessible to individuals from all walks of life, ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunity for participation. Public school students are being given the opportunity to participate in the highly anticipated "Cultural Skills Competition". Additionally, the esteemed "Cultural Scholarship" program has emerged as a promising platform for students to delve into a wide array of cultural disciplines. In addition, artists seeking to enhance their creative skills and bring their projects to life can take advantage of the "Art Residency" program. The cultural landscape in Saudi Arabia has undergone a significant transformation, offering a wide array of choices and experiences for both its citizens and visitors. The ministry's efforts in this field have led to the creation of the "Taif Rose Festival," a noteworthy occasion that aims to introduce the public to these esteemed flowers and shed light on their significant influence on the community's cultural tapestry. In yet another remarkable occurrence, the "Guests of Al Tai" festival takes center stage, paying tribute to the esteemed Hatem Al-Tai. This distinguished Arab poet has long been celebrated for his embodiment of noble ethics and unwavering commitment to upholding the cherished principles of Arab culture, which remain held in the highest esteem. The Kingdom has established itself as a captivating cultural hub, drawing in individuals who are driven by a thirst for knowledge and a deep-seated longing for intellectual development. These individuals flock to the Kingdom, enticed by its wealth of educational resources, in their quest to satiate their desire for intellectual growth. The ministry has successfully adjusted to the swift growth of the country and has made conscientious efforts to fulfill the desires of tourists eager to discover its enchanting sights. In a remarkable display of commitment, the organization has been tirelessly engaged in bolstering intercultural ties and nurturing a sense of shared understanding among a wide range of societies. In a significant move, the Kingdom has actively participated in the G20 Culture Ministers' Meeting, furthering its commitment to host the first-ever collective assembly of culture ministers under the G20 umbrella. This momentous occasion coincides with the highly anticipated G20 summit, spearheaded by Saudi Arabia, scheduled for 2020. In a momentous achievement, the Ministry of Culture successfully orchestrated the highly anticipated inaugural International Opera Festival in Riyadh last year. This groundbreaking event marked a significant milestone in the cultural landscape of the region. A multitude of distinguished artists hailing from diverse backgrounds enthusiastically took part in this vibrant cultural event. In a simultaneous development, the Ministry of Culture in Saudi Arabia has taken a noteworthy step by releasing Saudi Cultural Status Reports. These reports serve as a valuable tool to meticulously observe and assess the cultural dynamics within the Kingdom and extend their gaze beyond its borders. The reports are subject to regular updates, making them an invaluable point of reference for those with an interest in the matter. The highly anticipated Saudi Cultural Status Report, which made its debut in 2019, has quickly solidified its position as a trusted and influential resource. This comprehensive publication has gained recognition for its meticulous approach to tracking cultural trends and meticulously recording the progress made within the realm of Saudi culture. In the recently released 2020 Saudi Cultural Status Report, an in-depth exploration was conducted on the intriguing concept of "cultural digitization". In a thorough analysis, the ministry undertook a comprehensive examination and evaluation of the cultural movement, delving into its myriad expressions. In addition, an observation was made regarding the impact of digital transformation on the various activities and events associated with this movement. In a masterful display of information organization, the report skillfully presented its findings through the lens of seven comprehensive themes. These themes, namely creativity, production, presence, prevalence, digitization of culture, infrastructure, and the creative economy, served as the backbone of the report's message, effectively capturing the essence of its research. In its latest edition, the third Saudi Cultural Status Report for the year 2021 delves into a comprehensive analysis of the cultural terrain prevalent in the public sphere. In the wake of a devastating economic downturn triggered by the global COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a notable resurgence in cultural activities, accompanied by a significant surge in public engagement. In a recent report, a significant surge has been noted in the establishment of academic programs centered around culture and the arts in higher education institutions. During the period from 2019 to 2021, an impressive total of 853 programs of this nature were launched. In a notable development, there has been a significant increase in the number of individuals expressing a keen interest in pursuing cultural and artistic disciplines overseas. This specific group has, in fact, witnessed an astounding growth rate of 132% during the mentioned time frame. In recent times, there has been a significant surge in the number of individuals expressing a keen interest in academic programs and courses that revolve around the fields of tourism, hospitality, the arts, visual production, and culinary arts. In accordance with the aforementioned report, it is worth noting that a considerable amount of cultural activity was observed. In a remarkable display of cultural vibrancy, the city witnessed an astonishing number of over 5 million tourist trips, underscoring its appeal as a top destination. Moreover, the local non-profit organizations orchestrated a commendable 70 cultural events, further enriching the city's artistic landscape. Not to be outdone, the commercial art institutions and galleries played a pivotal role by hosting an awe-inspiring total of more than 275 exhibitions, showcasing the diverse talents and creativity of the artistic community. In a recent report, it was revealed that there has been a significant surge of 30.3% in the number of visits to historical and heritage sites. In a remarkable display of local talent and enthusiasm, a staggering number of 185 local film producers actively took part in the highly anticipated Red Sea Film Festival and the prestigious Saudi Film Festival. In a remarkable feat, the "Tarjim" initiative has successfully facilitated the translation of an impressive total of 336 books and literary works. This groundbreaking endeavor has opened up new avenues for cross-cultural exchange and understanding, bringing diverse voices and narratives to a wider audience. The tireless efforts of the "Tarjim" initiative have undoubtedly contributed to the enrichment of global literature, fostering a more interconnected world. In a recently released report, a comprehensive overview of cultural developments in Saudi Arabia has been provided. The report delves into various aspects of the country's cultural landscape, shedding light on the diverse and evolving nature of Saudi society. In a remarkable display of historical significance, six noteworthy archaeological discoveries have recently come to light, capturing the attention of experts and enthusiasts alike. These remarkable findings, coupled with an impressive array of ongoing archaeological survey projects numbering 23, have shed new light on our understanding of the past. In a noteworthy development, the report highlights the registration of four distinct elements of Saudi heritage on international lists, underscoring their immense global importance. In addition, it recognizes the existence of 17 cultural competitions that play a vital role in promoting and safeguarding cultural practices. In addition to its findings, the report also highlights the noteworthy inauguration of two innovative complexes that have emerged as significant cultural hubs. In addition, the establishment of the Cultural Development Fund is a clear indication of the government's unwavering dedication to promoting cultural advancement. In a final note, the report highlights the notable surge in support programs spanning various cultural domains, underscoring a burgeoning focus on cultural advancement within the realm of Saudi Arabia. In a recently released report, it has been brought to light that a significant number of individuals, totaling over 28,000 volunteers, are actively involved in a wide range of cultural domains. This finding is particularly noteworthy, shedding light on the immense dedication and participation within these cultural spheres. The ministry has officially outlined 16 sub-sectors that have been designated as top priorities. These sectors have been identified as crucial areas that demand special focus and necessitate development in order to lead the way in innovative initiatives across a wide range of cultural domains. The sub-sectors mentioned by the user include a diverse array of fields, including books and publishing, cultural heritage, architecture, and design. In a significant development in the year 2020, a total of 11 specialized commissions were established with the primary objective of overseeing subsidiary cultural activities across multiple sectors. The commissions were assigned with the goal of improving the efficiency of these activities. The commissions mentioned above are of utmost importance in creating a favorable environment. Their primary responsibilities include improving skills and knowledge, forming partnerships, managing resources, allocating funds to support sector initiatives, and implementing long-term plans. In the wake of its establishment, the cultural sector has witnessed a remarkable upswing in activity, capturing the interest and enthusiasm of those with a penchant for creativity. The Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission has been diligently involved in the coordination of numerous book fairs, with one particularly noteworthy occasion being the Riyadh International Book Fair. The organization has taken on the responsibility of organizing noteworthy events and initiatives, one of which is the Riyadh International Philosophy Conference. This conference serves as a crucial platform for fostering intellectual discourse and facilitating the exchange of ideas. In addition, the organization has introduced the Literary Partner initiative, a program that seeks to curate cultural activities in various public spaces, particularly cafés. In a final move, the organization has unveiled its groundbreaking Digital Publishing Program, a strategic initiative designed to streamline the distribution of knowledge by means of digital book publication. In a concerted effort to ensure the full implementation of their individual plans, the 11 commissions have come together to collectively engage in a range of initiatives. The individuals showcased remarkable commitment as they immersed themselves in the ever-changing landscape of the cultural sector, diligently keeping pace with its numerous transformations. The "Digital Books Platform" by the Libraries Commission acts as a channel through which users can conveniently access a wide range of audio and digital books. In a groundbreaking initiative, the commission has launched the "Munawil" project, which aims to revolutionize the way books are borrowed. This innovative system allows users to access a wide range of books through an automated process, completely free of charge. The Heritage Commission has proven itself to be highly skilled in the protection of cultural assets and archaeological sites, going above and beyond to highlight the deep historical importance of the Kingdom. In a groundbreaking investigation and archaeological dig, the commission has unearthed a treasure trove of significant discoveries on the Farasan Islands. These remarkable findings shed light on extraordinary architectural phenomena and artifacts that can be traced back to the ancient times of the second and third centuries. In a groundbreaking field survey conducted in the Al-Faw archeological area, the former capital of the illustrious Kingdom of Kinda, remarkable discoveries have been made. These findings shed light on the ancient human presence in the region, with remnants of habitation dating back to the Neolithic era. During the survey, a number of agricultural zones and petroglyphs, which are rock carvings, were also unearthed. A groundbreaking archaeological survey has recently yielded a major achievement in the form of the first-ever documentation of carvings inscribed in the Dadanitic alphabet within Al-Qassim Province. In a fascinating discovery, intricate carvings have been found that shed light on the ancient road connecting the historical realms of Dadan and Lihyan in the northwestern area of the Arabian Peninsula. These carvings offer a vivid depiction of the road's significance, as it connected these realms to the Kingdom of Kinda. The Kingdom of Kinda, known for its capital city, Al-Faw, situated in the central region of Arabia, played a prominent role in the region's history. The carvings provide valuable insights into the historical and cultural connections between these ancient civilizations. The intricate carvings discovered provide compelling evidence of the extensive trade interactions that took place among diverse ancient Arabian kingdoms in the pre-Islamic era. The Heritage Commission has shown its unwavering dedication to nurturing the growth of artisans through its extensive assistance and valuable resources. In pursuit of its goal, the commission has recently launched the Saudi International Crafts Week, a momentous occasion that highlights the abilities and expertise of more than 200 artisans representing various craft disciplines. Furthermore, the organization took the initiative to organize workshops with the objective of rejuvenating and safeguarding age-old handicraft traditions. In a bid to attract film producers from near and far, the Film Commission has launched the groundbreaking "Financial Refund Incentives" program. This initiative aims to invigorate the Kingdom's film industry by encouraging local, regional, and international filmmakers to choose its picturesque landscapes as the backdrop for their cinematic creations. A program has been introduced that aims to promote the expansion of cinematic production by providing a significant incentive of up to 40 percent of the expenses incurred. In a commendable move, the commission has extended its support to a diverse range of beneficiaries, including Saudi filmmakers, individuals born within the Kingdom irrespective of their nationality, and the children of Saudi women who are married to non-Saudi citizens. In an effort to foster the growth of creative content within the Kingdom, a support initiative has been launched to streamline the production of short and feature films participating in the esteemed "Light" competition. This initiative aims to facilitate the filmmaking process, ultimately contributing to the enrichment of creative content in the region. The Fashion Commission has played a significant role in preserving the cultural heritage of the Kingdom through its efforts to support and promote Saudi fashion designers. The Saudi 100 Brand Program is an initiative that offers a remarkable platform for globally renowned fashion industry experts to provide specialized training and guidance to a carefully chosen group of designers for a duration of one year. In a groundbreaking move, the commission has just released its highly anticipated inaugural comprehensive report, shedding light on the current state of the fashion industry within the Kingdom. The efforts made by the Theater and Performing Arts Commission have had a profound impact on the cultural and artistic landscape of the Kingdom. In a bid to bolster the creative community, the organization has launched the "Playwright Competition," a groundbreaking initiative aimed at offering much-needed assistance to writers. In a remarkable display of initiative, the organization not only curated but also hosted a diverse range of events. Among these notable occasions was the Qemam International Festival for Mountain Performance Arts, held in the picturesque city of Abha, nestled in the breathtaking Asir region. Furthermore, the organization had the honor of organizing the esteemed Riyadh Theater Festival, a testament to their commitment to promoting and celebrating the arts. The various collaborative efforts have greatly enhanced the cultural landscape, providing a stage for showcasing and spreading the unique Saudi national identity, which encompasses a wealth of cultural heritage, traditions, and historical significance.
