The evolution of Saudi culture: The Crown Prince's initiatives enhance the Kingdom's standing

has witnessed Saudi culture an exceptional transformation, reflected in the launch of dozens of initiatives and projects that have contributed to building an integrated cultural system. These efforts have strengthened the Kingdom's regional and international presence as a growing center for creativity, arts, and knowledge. This renaissance has come within the context of transformations that have placed culture among the pillars of comprehensive development to build a vibrant society and a diversified knowledge economy.

Historical roots paved the way for a new era

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has never been isolated from the human cultural heritage. The Arabian Peninsula has long been a crossroads of civilizations and a route for trade caravans, enriching its diverse cultural and artistic traditions. With the establishment of the modern Saudi state, a focus on heritage gradually emerged, but the true, institutional transformation came with Vision 2030, which transformed this rich historical legacy into a dynamic and organized sector. With the establishment of the Ministry of Culture in 2018, the Kingdom embarked on a new phase by launching strategies to develop 16 cultural sectors, including literature, theater, cinema, music, visual arts, and museums, in a move aimed at building an integrated cultural industry that supports creativity.

Dimensions of local and international influence on Saudi culture

This cultural movement holds immense importance that transcends geographical boundaries, shaping a promising future. Locally, it has contributed to creating new job opportunities for young people, diversifying national income sources, and enhancing the quality of life for citizens and residents by providing a wide range of cultural and recreational options. Regionally and internationally, Saudi culture has become an effective soft power, building bridges of communication with the world's peoples, correcting stereotypes, and showcasing the Kingdom's bright, civilized image. Reports confirm the existence of tens of thousands of commercial registrations related to cultural and creative activities, demonstrating the breadth of the cultural economy.

A radical transformation and an open artistic vision

Art critic Wael Saud Al-Otaibi affirms that the Crown Prince's initiatives have brought about a radical transformation, adopting an approach that balances pride in national heritage with global openness. He added that art in Saudi Arabia has become a robust industry, making its mark on the international stage and leaving an indelible imprint, with Saudi artists today presenting creative and daring ideas. He noted that the cinematic landscape is witnessing a remarkable transformation, with Saudi filmmakers competing on the global stage and winning awards, emphasizing that this success is a result of unprecedented governmental and academic support.

A long-term sustainable civilization project

For her part, Elena Grammatica, an Italian consultant in public relations and cultural communication, explained that the cultural transformations in the Kingdom are a long-term civilizational project aimed at building a sustainable cultural industry. She noted that cultural media plays a pivotal role in highlighting these transformations, emphasizing that the Kingdom has become a significant player in cultural diplomacy through its participation in international exhibitions and its hosting of global events.

Elena Grammatica

New spaces for poetic and literary creativity

Poet and writer Abdul-Ilah Dashisha stated that the cultural movement has created a new space for creativity, providing poets and artists with broader opportunities to express their experiences and interact with audiences both locally and globally. He explained that poetry is the oldest form of cultural art in the Arabian Peninsula, and that the Kingdom has been keen on supporting literature and intellectuals, pointing to initiatives by the Ministry of Culture such as the Year of Arab Poetry 2023 and the launch of cultural satellite channels. He expressed his gratitude for this support with a patriotic poem renewing his loyalty and allegiance to the wise leadership.

Abdul-Ilah Dashisha

Global launch of the visual arts

Visual artist Walaa Baazeem affirmed that the Saudi presence at international art exhibitions and events has become more prominent in recent years. She stated that institutional support for culture has enabled artists to access international platforms, thus enhancing the Kingdom's image as a growing center of artistic creativity. She added that what we are witnessing today is not merely an economic boom, but a creative explosion that has reshaped cultural identity and placed Saudi art at the heart of the global art scene.

Walaa Baazeem