Saudi Ministry of Culture Partners with AlUla Commission for Cultural Development

Strengthening Cultural Ties in Saudi Arabia

On September 29, 2025, during the Cultural Investment Conference, a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Riyadh between the Ministry of Culture and the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU). This partnership aims to advance the development of culture and heritage in AlUla, positioning it as a premier global cultural destination.

A Commitment to Cultural Growth

The agreement was formalized by Vice Minister of Culture Hamed Fayez and RCU Chief Executive Officer Abeer AlAkel, highlighting the commitment of both entities to enrich Saudi Arabia's cultural identity. Vice Minister Fayez remarked, "This agreement is a catalyst for the collaboration between our Ministry and RCU, enabling us to showcase Saudi cultural identity while seamlessly blending AlUla's stunning landscapes with its deep-rooted heritage."

RCU CEO Abeer AlAkel stressed that the MoU significantly enhances the already strong partnership with the Ministry of Culture and aligns with Saudi Vision 2030. AlAkel stated, "This collaboration focuses on acknowledging culture as a key driver of sustainable economic growth, nurturing our cultural and knowledge-based economy through shared expertise and innovation."

Broad Areas of Cooperation

The MoU outlines several key areas for collaboration, particularly in developing cultural infrastructure in AlUla. This includes planning for long-term projects that address various developmental needs while ensuring sustainability in cultural activities. These initiatives span across the arts, heritage, and other sectors while ensuring the coordination of cultural events, festivals, and programs.

The partnership aims to enhance community engagement through educational and professional programs, fostering local talent, and encouraging wider participation in cultural sectors. Other highlighted goals include stimulating the cultural economy and attracting investments in creative industries, which will be crucial for inclusive growth and job creation in AlUla.

Upcoming Cultural Initiatives

This partnership builds on previous successful initiatives such as the Wadi AlFann Dialogue and the AlUla Future Culture Summit. These collective efforts demonstrate a robust framework for promoting cultural development. Additionally, together, they have supported the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historical Mosques and are expanding cultural programming in AlUla.

The region is being transformed into a hub that nurtures both public and private cultural schools while encouraging a dialogue around arts and heritage. The Cultural Investment Conference, which was the backdrop for this signing, serves as a vital platform to explore culture as a sustainable economic driver. This annual event aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within the cultural realm while facilitating knowledge exchange and building international partnerships.

Conclusion

As the Ministry of Culture and RCU embark on this partnership, they are setting the stage for a transformative future for cultural heritage in Saudi Arabia. Both institutions are committed to preserving the rich history of AlUla while paving the way for a thriving cultural economy that reflects Saudi Arabia's vision for comprehensive social and economic development. As the Kingdom moves forward, AlUla stands poised to become not only a majestic open-air museum but also a vibrant center for cultural exchange and artistic collaboration.