Saudi Museums Commission Launches 'Virtual Reality Competition for Museums'

Saudi Museums Commission Launches 'Virtual Reality Competition for Museums'
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Saudi Museums Commission Launches 'Virtual Reality Competition for Museums'

Saudi Museums Commission Launches 'Virtual Reality Competition for Museums'

Saudi Arabia's Museums Commission has opened applications for the "Virtual Reality Competition for Museums," aimed at enabling talents to create interactive educational experiences within museums. This initiative is part of the commission's ongoing efforts to promote education and innovation in the museums sector.
The competition seeks to support young talents by equipping them with skills in virtual reality design and programming. These competencies are intended to advance museum capabilities, enhance their societal role, and highlight cultural identity by creating virtual reality experiences that reflect the Kingdom's heritage, SPA reported.
Target participants include students and graduates specializing in information technology, computer science, digital design, and fine arts. Developers and programmers interested in virtual reality technologies are also encouraged to apply. The competition welcomes artists and designers eager to integrate technology with art, as well as culture enthusiasts with a technological background who wish to explore virtual reality applications in museums. Storytellers with the ability to creatively narrate their city or region's history and civilization are also invited to participate.
Applications are open from December 6, with a training program scheduled to run for four months. The competition will unfold in four phases: selection of trainees, virtual reality training and development, creation of interactive educational experiences, and evaluation and judging. Winners will be recognized through regional ceremonies held in their respective areas.
The Museums Commission urges all eligible individuals to contribute to shaping the future of regional museums in Saudi Arabia by creating innovative, interactive platforms that inspire future generations and foster an appreciation for museums and cultural heritage.
Registration for the "Virtual Reality Competition for Museums" is available through the Museums Commission website or its official social media channels.



Saudi Arabia Designates 2025 as the Year of Handicrafts to Celebrate Its Vibrant Cultural Heritage

The year dedicated to preserving and documenting traditional Saudi handicrafts and strengthening their international presence (Ministry of Culture)
The year dedicated to preserving and documenting traditional Saudi handicrafts and strengthening their international presence (Ministry of Culture)
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Saudi Arabia Designates 2025 as the Year of Handicrafts to Celebrate Its Vibrant Cultural Heritage

The year dedicated to preserving and documenting traditional Saudi handicrafts and strengthening their international presence (Ministry of Culture)
The year dedicated to preserving and documenting traditional Saudi handicrafts and strengthening their international presence (Ministry of Culture)

Handicrafts have long held a special place in Saudi Arabia’s cultural fabric, representing a prosperous heritage passed down through generations. Rooted in the creativity and skill of Saudi artisans, these traditional crafts symbolize the nation’s ingenuity and resilience while highlighting its diverse cultural identity.
Throughout 2025, the Saudi Ministry of Culture will organize an array of events, exhibitions, educational programs, and exciting competitions under the banner of the "Year of Handicrafts." These activities aim to emphasize the cultural and historical significance of handicrafts while supporting their relevance in modern life, said the Saudi Press Agency on Wednesday.
By highlighting artisanry across various sectors, the initiative seeks to foster appreciation for traditional arts and encourage their continued practice and preservation.
Handicrafts, including palm weaving, metalwork, and pottery, serve as enduring symbols of Saudi culture, blending tradition with modernity. These crafts are not only an artistic expression but also a reflection of the Kingdom’s history, values, and adaptability. By celebrating these art forms, the Year of Handicrafts aims to inspire new generations to engage with their heritage and highlight the talent of Saudi artisans to local and global audiences.
The initiative also seeks to empower artisans by enhancing opportunities for their crafts in contemporary markets and strengthening their connection with the global community. Through partnerships across the public, private, and non-profit sectors, the Year of Handicrafts will cultivate sustainable practices, foster innovation, and contribute to cultural dialogue.
As a testament to the Ministry of Culture’s commitment to safeguarding Saudi Arabia’s heritage, the Year of Handicrafts provides a platform to celebrate the stories, skills, and traditions that form the foundation of the Kingdom’s cultural identity.