Culture Ministry Partners with TikTok to Boost Saudi Cultural Sector

Officials sign the agreement during a ceremony at the Ministry of Culture in Riyadh. (SPA)
Officials sign the agreement during a ceremony at the Ministry of Culture in Riyadh. (SPA)
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Culture Ministry Partners with TikTok to Boost Saudi Cultural Sector

Officials sign the agreement during a ceremony at the Ministry of Culture in Riyadh. (SPA)
Officials sign the agreement during a ceremony at the Ministry of Culture in Riyadh. (SPA)

The Saudi Ministry of Culture signed on Monday a cooperation agreement with TikTok to strengthen collaboration across various fields, aiming to support and empower Saudi Arabia's cultural and artistic landscape by leveraging digital technology to enrich cultural experiences and enhance public awareness of cultural and heritage values.

The agreement was signed by Deputy Minister of National Partnerships and Talent Development Noha Kattan on behalf of the ministry, and CEO of Government Relations and Public Policy at TikTok in Saudi Arabia Dr. Hatem Samman during a ceremony at the Ministry of Culture in Riyadh.

The agreement outlines joint initiatives to serve the community, reinforce cultural and social values in line with the National Culture Strategy under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, and organize workshops and training programs to develop Saudi artistic talent and support cultural events hosted in the Kingdom.

As part of the ministry's broader efforts to collaborate with digital platforms, this partnership contributes to the development of the Saudi cultural scene and the promotion of national cultural identity through modern channels that embrace rapid digital transformation. This strategic approach includes partnerships with entities across the public, private, and non-profit sectors.

The collaboration between the Ministry of Culture and TikTok aims to boost cultural and creative content, support Saudi talent in diverse artistic fields, highlight the Kingdom's cultural and social role, and promote its heritage, all within the framework of the National Culture Strategy and the Kingdom Vision 2030.



Cultural Camp at King Abdulaziz Camel Festival Showcases Saudi Heritage

The camp celebrates authentic Saudi heritage and reinforces culture as a cornerstone of national identity - SPA
The camp celebrates authentic Saudi heritage and reinforces culture as a cornerstone of national identity - SPA
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Cultural Camp at King Abdulaziz Camel Festival Showcases Saudi Heritage

The camp celebrates authentic Saudi heritage and reinforces culture as a cornerstone of national identity - SPA
The camp celebrates authentic Saudi heritage and reinforces culture as a cornerstone of national identity - SPA

The cultural camp is a key feature of the 10th King Abdulaziz Camel Festival, held in Al-Sayahid desert. The camp celebrates authentic Saudi heritage and reinforces culture as a cornerstone of national identity, according to SPA.

It offers a range of programs, including live performances and interactive events, that highlight camels' historical significance in Arab culture and illustrate the values of patience, strength, and belonging.

The camp has attracted over 2,000 guests from 71 nationalities, emphasizing its global appeal as a cultural platform for diversity and tradition.

Visitors engage with cultural content through innovative methods that merge authenticity with modern technology, enhancing awareness of the camel's cultural legacy. This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 by preserving heritage and connecting younger generations with their roots.


Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 Announces 25 Participating Artists for Seventh Edition

The 2026 edition features a month-long live sculpting phase alongside a community engagement program - SPA
The 2026 edition features a month-long live sculpting phase alongside a community engagement program - SPA
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Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 Announces 25 Participating Artists for Seventh Edition

The 2026 edition features a month-long live sculpting phase alongside a community engagement program - SPA
The 2026 edition features a month-long live sculpting phase alongside a community engagement program - SPA

Under the Royal Commission for Riyadh City and Riyadh Art, Tuwaiq Sculpture has announced the selection of 25 artists for the seventh edition of the annual sculpture symposium and exhibition, taking place from January 10 to February 22, 2026.

This year’s edition unfolds under the curatorial theme “Traces of What Will Be,” inviting artists to reflect on how sculptural form can express the physical, cultural and conceptual traces that shape the future of cities and communities, SPA reported.

A total of 25 artists from 18 countries, including Saudi artists, have been selected for the seventh edition. Their proposals reflect a diverse range of artistic approaches, responding to the theme through explorations of transformation, place, and materiality.

Director of the Tuwaiq Sculpture Symposium Sarah Alruwayti said: "The seventh edition of Tuwaiq Sculpture received more than 590 applications, reflecting the cultural diversity and global interest in the symposium. The selection of the 25 participating artists was carried out by a jury of industry experts and specialists. Their proposals show meaningful engagement with the theme and reflect the strength and diversity of contemporary sculptural practice. We look forward to welcoming them to Riyadh for the creation of new works that will become lasting additions to the city.”

Building on the evolving material practice of the symposium, Tuwaiq Sculpture 2026 introduces two sculpting categories: granite with optional stainless-steel integration and reclaimed metal. Twenty artists will work in granite, while five will create new works in reclaimed metal. Over four weeks, they will produce large-scale sculptures that will later be added to Riyadh Art’s permanent public art collection.

The 2026 edition features a month-long live sculpting phase alongside a community engagement program, inviting visitors to witness the creation of artworks and take part in panel discussions and workshops. The symposium will conclude with a public exhibition showcasing the completed sculptures from its seventh edition.


ALECSO Celebrates Opening of Arabic Calligraphy Center in Saudi Arabia

Arabic calligraphy adorns wrcades, Walls of the Grand Mosque of Makkah - SPA
Arabic calligraphy adorns wrcades, Walls of the Grand Mosque of Makkah - SPA
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ALECSO Celebrates Opening of Arabic Calligraphy Center in Saudi Arabia

Arabic calligraphy adorns wrcades, Walls of the Grand Mosque of Makkah - SPA
Arabic calligraphy adorns wrcades, Walls of the Grand Mosque of Makkah - SPA

The Arab League of Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) congratulated Saudi Arabia on the opening of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy in Madinah on December 22, 2025.

In a statement, ALECSO called the center a significant addition to the Arab and Islamic cultural landscape, noting its role in preserving Arabic calligraphy and enhancing its global presence, SPA reported.

This achievement reflects the Kingdom's commitment to culture and heritage, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s objectives of fostering cultural creativity and reinforcing Arabic identity.

ALECSO emphasized that such institutions serve as global bridges for cultural exchange and ensure the relevance of traditional arts through dedicated research and training facilities.