Paris, November 16, 2024 – The Saudi-French Ministerial Committee, established under the Intergovernmental Agreement of April 10, 2018, held its second meeting in Paris on November 15, 2024. The committee, focused on promoting cultural, environmental, tourism, human, and economic development in Saudi Arabia’s AlUla Governorate, was chaired by Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Saudi Minister of Culture and Governor of the Royal Commission for AlUla, and Jean-Noël Barrot, French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs.
In attendance were several prominent figures, including Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Saudi Minister of Investment Khalid Al-Falih, and Acting CEO of the Royal Commission for AlUla Abeer AlAkel. The French delegation was led by Minister Rachida Dati, Minister of Economy, Finance, and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty Antoine Armand, and Chairman of the French Agency for the Development of AlUla (AfAlUla) Jean-Yves Le Drian.
The committee highlighted the ongoing success of the unique partnership between France and Saudi Arabia in AlUla, commending the extensive cooperation across multiple sectors, particularly in cultural and human exchanges. The meeting focused on key ongoing and future projects that illustrate the strength of Saudi-French collaboration in AlUla, a region renowned for its cultural and historical significance.
Among the notable achievements discussed was the progress of Villa Hégra, a joint Saudi-French cultural institution dedicated to showcasing the arts and culture of both countries, as outlined in the Intergovernmental Agreement signed in December 2021. The committee also praised the success of the archaeological program in AlUla, which has facilitated the participation of nearly 150 French researchers and archaeologists since its inception in 2018.
Furthermore, the partnership between the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and Université Paris 1 Panthéon Sorbonne was recognized for its role in enhancing academic and cultural ties. The success of key infrastructure projects, including the Tramway project led by ALSTOM and the Sharaan Resort designed by architect Jean Nouvel and to be built by Bouygues, were also highlighted as prime examples of French companies contributing to the vision for AlUla.
Looking ahead, the committee reaffirmed its commitment to further elevating the Saudi-French partnership in AlUla. Both governments expressed a strong desire to deepen their collaboration, ensuring that the partnership continues to resonate on the global stage, while preserving and promoting AlUla’s unique cultural and historical heritage. This ongoing cooperation represents a significant step toward realizing AlUla’s potential as a world-class cultural and tourism destination, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving its rich heritage and fostering international cultural exchange.
