Workshops for tour guides in Historic Jeddah, sponsored by the Ministry of Culture
In a move aimed at enhancing the quality of the tourist experience and developing the skills of national personnel, the Ministry of Culture launched a series of specialized workshops for tour guides working in the Historic Jeddah (Al-Balad) district. This initiative is part of the Ministry's strategy to preserve and accurately and professionally convey intangible cultural heritage to visitors from around the world.
These workshops focus on providing tour guides with documented historical information about the region's rich archaeological sites, as well as training them in engaging storytelling techniques that connect the past with the present. These training programs aim to ensure the delivery of authentic cultural content that reflects the region's deep-rooted heritage, free from misinformation or personal interpretations, thus contributing to a positive and memorable experience for tourists.
The importance of historic Jeddah as a global heritage
These workshops gain added importance given the global significance of Historic Jeddah, which was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2014. The area is distinguished by its unique architectural style, characterized by hewn stone and intricately carved wooden windows, making it an open-air museum that tells stories spanning hundreds of years. As the historical gateway to the Two Holy Mosques, Jeddah, through its port, has welcomed millions of pilgrims and Umrah performers, creating a diverse social and cultural fabric that requires tour guides to possess a broad understanding of its intricacies.
The role of the tour guide in Vision 2030
These efforts align with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes the tourism and culture sectors as cornerstones of national economic diversification. Tour guides are the primary ambassadors of Saudi culture to visitors; therefore, investing in their skills development is just as crucial as investing in infrastructure and restoring heritage buildings. These workshops are expected to enhance the professional competence of guides, positively impacting tourism and extending visitor stays in the region.
In conclusion, this step represents a confirmation of the commitment of the concerned authorities to develop the Saudi tourism product to be competitive at the regional and international levels, by providing an integrated experience that combines the charm of history and the generosity of authentic Saudi hospitality, supported by accurate information and a sound historical narrative.
