Culture Ministry Signs Partnership with SOAS University of London for Riyadh University of Arts

 SOAS will collaborate with RUA’s College of Heritage and Civilization Studies - SPA
SOAS will collaborate with RUA’s College of Heritage and Civilization Studies - SPA
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Culture Ministry Signs Partnership with SOAS University of London for Riyadh University of Arts

 SOAS will collaborate with RUA’s College of Heritage and Civilization Studies - SPA
SOAS will collaborate with RUA’s College of Heritage and Civilization Studies - SPA

The Ministry of Culture today signed a partnership with SOAS University of London, for Riyadh University of Arts (RUA)’s College of Heritage and Civilization Studies, to support further creative development and drive cultural diversity through exchange.

According to the ministry, the signing ceremony took place during Saudi Arabia’s inaugural Digital Heritage Conference, a national event dedicated to digital preservation and heritage innovation.

As part of the partnership, SOAS will collaborate with RUA’s College of Heritage and Civilization Studies to design and deliver specialized academic programs that drive excellence in heritage and cultural education, SPA reported.

Deputy Culture Minister for National Partnerships and Talent Development Noha Kattan signed for Riyadh University of Arts, while SOAS was represented by Dean of the College of Humanities Professor Graeme Earl.

SOAS is a world-renowned academic and research institution specializing in the study of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, the only university in Europe with this unique regional focus. Its interdisciplinary approach integrates the humanities, social sciences and the arts providing a globally informed perspective on cultural, societal and intellectual traditions.

This partnership is part of a series of partnerships and MoUs to be signed by Riyadh University of Arts with leading international institutions for the development of academic programs, research collaboration and the creation of enriching opportunities for cultural education and professional development.



Royal Order Issued on Establishment of Riyadh University of Arts

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz. SPA
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz. SPA
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Royal Order Issued on Establishment of Riyadh University of Arts

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz. SPA
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz. SPA

A royal order has been issued approving the establishment of the Riyadh University of Arts, an independent educational institution headquartered in Riyadh under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture.

With legal personality and financial and administrative autonomy, the university is dedicated to specialized education in culture and the arts, aiming to cultivate national talent across creative disciplines through advanced academic programs aligned with global best practices and the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

The royal order authorizes the Minister of Culture to exercise the powers of the Board of Trustees until it is formally established, ensuring the swift completion of organizational procedures to begin operations.

To enhance its academic mission, the university will seek partnerships with prestigious international institutions to exchange expertise and develop high-level educational programs.

This initiative underscores the leadership's commitment to bolstering the Kingdom’s position as a regional cultural hub and fostering the growth of its creative industries.


Riyadh’s Markets Thrive as Men Prepare Traditional Attire for Eid Al-Fitr

Riyadh’s markets are experiencing a significant surge in activity - SPA
Riyadh’s markets are experiencing a significant surge in activity - SPA
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Riyadh’s Markets Thrive as Men Prepare Traditional Attire for Eid Al-Fitr

Riyadh’s markets are experiencing a significant surge in activity - SPA
Riyadh’s markets are experiencing a significant surge in activity - SPA

In preparation for Eid Al-Fitr, Riyadh’s markets are experiencing a significant surge in activity as men follow the Prophetic tradition of adorning themselves for the holiday, creating high demand for new thobes, bishts, and high-quality perfumes such as oud oil and incense, while tailoring shops and specialty retailers work at peak capacity to meet the community’s needs before the Eid morning celebrations, SPA reported.

The classic white thobe remains the most popular choice for Eid morning, often paired with a shemagh and a white bisht to symbolize cultural identity and elegance.

Beyond appearance, these preparations reflect deep-rooted social and religious values, emphasizing gratitude, family visits, and the strengthening of communal ties.


Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project Restores Al-Fuwaihi Mosque in Sakaka

The restoration expanded the mosque’s area from 72.33 to 93.98 square meters - SPA
The restoration expanded the mosque’s area from 72.33 to 93.98 square meters - SPA
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Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project Restores Al-Fuwaihi Mosque in Sakaka

The restoration expanded the mosque’s area from 72.33 to 93.98 square meters - SPA
The restoration expanded the mosque’s area from 72.33 to 93.98 square meters - SPA

As part of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historical Mosques, Al-Fuwaihi Mosque in Sakaka, originally built in 1380 AH (1960) and commissioned by Shaman Al-Fuwaihi, has undergone a comprehensive restoration to preserve its architectural and cultural identity while serving as a vital link to the urban and social history of Al-Jouf Region, SPA reported.

The restoration expanded the mosque’s area from 72.33 to 93.98 square meters, yet maintained its original capacity of 28 worshippers.

Supervised by Saudi engineers and executed by specialized heritage firms, the project successfully balanced traditional standards with modern technology.

This initiative aligns with Vision 2030 by rehabilitating historic sites for prayer, highlighting the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of these religious landmarks.