‘Compass’ Program Aims to Preserve History of Red Sea and Saudi Arabia’s Western Region

The move is part of a larger regional documentation program to explore innovative ideas and boost cognitive and cultural content about the diversity of the Red Sea. (SPA)
The move is part of a larger regional documentation program to explore innovative ideas and boost cognitive and cultural content about the diversity of the Red Sea. (SPA)
TT

‘Compass’ Program Aims to Preserve History of Red Sea and Saudi Arabia’s Western Region

The move is part of a larger regional documentation program to explore innovative ideas and boost cognitive and cultural content about the diversity of the Red Sea. (SPA)
The move is part of a larger regional documentation program to explore innovative ideas and boost cognitive and cultural content about the diversity of the Red Sea. (SPA)

The Center for the History of the Red Sea and the West of Saudi Arabia, affiliated with the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah), launched on Sunday the “Compass” program, marking the beginning of a series of interactive initiatives aimed at preserving and highlighting the national history of the Red Sea and the Kingdom's western region.

The move is part of a larger regional documentation program initiated by Darah to explore innovative ideas and boost cognitive and cultural content about the diversity of the Red Sea through digital production, culture, arts, emerging technologies, and artificial intelligence.

It includes skill-testing competitions designed to simplify educational content about the Red Sea, accompanied by creative products and solutions, as well as a variety of enrichment activities and ideas.

The program, running daily until July 25, is being held in cooperation with the College of Communication and Media at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, the “Let’s Provide an Initiative” program affiliated with Jeddah Governorate, the Historic Jeddah Program, and the Saudi Committee for Popular Games.

It provides an opportunity for all university students, graduates, and interested individuals to participate and compete by presenting their creative ideas in a stimulating and inspiring environment.



Prince of Wales Explores AlUla Arts Festival, Engages with Local Artists

The prince met with a group of talented young men and women from AlUla active in various artistic and cultural fields - SPA
The prince met with a group of talented young men and women from AlUla active in various artistic and cultural fields - SPA
TT

Prince of Wales Explores AlUla Arts Festival, Engages with Local Artists

The prince met with a group of talented young men and women from AlUla active in various artistic and cultural fields - SPA
The prince met with a group of talented young men and women from AlUla active in various artistic and cultural fields - SPA

AlUla Arts Festival captured the interest of the Prince of Wales and heir apparent to the throne of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Prince William during his recent visit to AlUla, SPA reported.

He viewed a selection of standout works by Saudi and international artists, ranging from contemporary installations to immersive open-air experiences inspired by AlUla’s landscapes and rich heritage.

He was also briefed on the festival’s creative programs, which annually transform AlUla into a dynamic platform for art and innovation, attracting artists and visitors from around the world.

During the visit, the prince met with a group of talented young men and women from AlUla active in various artistic and cultural fields.

He listened to their experiences and contributions to the governorate's cultural development, supported by ongoing efforts to strengthen the creative sector and expand its local and international presence.


Saudi Cinema Expands International Footprint at Berlin Festival

Saudi Cinema Expands International Footprint at Berlin Festival
TT

Saudi Cinema Expands International Footprint at Berlin Festival

Saudi Cinema Expands International Footprint at Berlin Festival

The Film Commission took part in the 76th Berlin International Film Festival, held from February 12 to 22, to showcase its key achievements in advancing the Saudi film sector and highlighting a selection of films that demonstrate the talent of Saudi filmmakers and the Kingdom’s expanding production infrastructure.

It presented the Kingdom’s diverse filming locations and spotlighted major milestones, including Norah, the first Saudi film selected for the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival, SPA reported.

The commission signed several cooperation agreements with leading international film institutions, including the French National Center of Cinema. It also launched artistic initiatives in Berlin in collaboration with global partners and cinemas, demonstrating the Kingdom’s expanding cultural and creative network.

CEO of the commission Abdullah Al-Qahtani said: "Saudi cinema goes beyond filmmaking to building cultural bridges and sharing authentic stories with global audiences."

He noted that strengthening strategic partnerships and investing in local talent are central to positioning the Kingdom as a hub for creative industries, adding that continued participation in international festivals broadens exposure to the richness and diversity of Saudi culture.


Saudi Arabia, UK Announce 2029 as Saudi-UK Year of Culture

Saudi Arabia, UK Announce 2029 as Saudi-UK Year of Culture
TT

Saudi Arabia, UK Announce 2029 as Saudi-UK Year of Culture

Saudi Arabia, UK Announce 2029 as Saudi-UK Year of Culture

The Saudi Ministry of Culture and the UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport have announced the year 2029 as the official Saudi-UK Year of Culture, reported the Saudi Press Agency on Wednesday. The announcement follows an official visit by Britain’s Prince William to Saudi Arabia this week.

For nearly a century, formal relations between Saudi Arabia and the UK and Northern Ireland have evolved into a multifaceted international relationship that has expanded across culture, education, and innovation, reflecting shared values and a mutual commitment to long-term cooperation.

In recent years, cultural exchange has emerged as a cornerstone of Saudi-British relations, driven by joint initiatives in heritage conservation, visual and culinary arts, architecture, and higher education.

This ongoing expansion of cultural exchange lays the foundation for the Saudi-UK Year of Culture 2029, a year-long program celebrating creative dialogue and the shared heritage of Saudi Arabia and the UK, while deepening cultural ties for generations to come. It will also be a great opportunity for young people in both countries to connect in new ways.

Supported by Saudi Vision 2030 and the United Kingdom’s continued promotion of cultural innovation and creativity, the Saudi-UK Year of Culture 2029 will be an important milestone for both countries.