Officials emphasize that these initiatives will significantly enhance the quality of life in the Kingdom and help develop professional capabilities across multiple sectors.

RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Culture and the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) on Wednesday announced a comprehensive round-up of various projects and agreements designed to elevate the quality of life in Saudi Arabia and boost professional skills in numerous sectors.

The first initiative involves a strengthened partnership between the Saudi Film Commission and Sela, a company renowned for its expertise in experiences, events, and destinations within the Kingdom. Sela serves as a strategic partner of Riyadh Season, an annual series of entertainment, cultural, and sporting events. This collaboration aims to provide substantial support to producers working at Al-Hosn Studios, a new zone set to debut with the 2024 Riyadh Season in October. This support encompasses assistance with licensing procedures, access to the commission’s Film Production Support Program, and the establishment of a commission office within the studio, thereby fostering a more efficient and creative production environment.

The second project sees the Ministry of Culture sponsoring an expansive fashion event titled “1000 Seasons and a Season,” scheduled for November. This high-profile event, organized in collaboration with acclaimed Lebanese designer Elie Saab, will take place at The Venue, another new addition to this year’s Riyadh Season. The fashion event promises to be a significant milestone, showcasing innovative designs and fostering international fashion collaborations.

In addition, the Ministry of Culture is partnering with Riyadh Season to sponsor a Christian Dior exhibition called “Designer of Dreams” in the historic Al-Murabba district. This internationally acclaimed exhibition, which has graced major cities such as New York, London, and Paris, will feature a rich collection of classic and contemporary fashion divided into 14 sections. The exhibition will also include a Dior gift shop and cafe, enhancing the visitor experience and promoting cultural appreciation.

The third initiative focuses on boosting the Saudi oud-manufacturing industry through a collaboration between the Ministry of Culture and the GEA. Supported by a Riyadh Season initiative, this project aims to promote Saudi-made oud, aligning with both organizations’ efforts to uplift musical arts and traditional crafts within the Kingdom. This initiative is expected to provide substantial support to local artisans and promote Saudi culture on an international stage.

The fourth project aims to solidify a strategic partnership between the Saudi Music Commission and Merwas Studio. This collaboration seeks to establish Merwas Studio as a global hub for music production and recording, nurturing local musical talents and attracting international artists to Saudi Arabia. Described as the largest arts and entertainment factory in the Arab world, Merwas is situated at Boulevard Riyadh City—one of Riyadh Season’s 15 entertainment zones featuring 22 studios. During Riyadh Season, visitors to Boulevard Riyadh City will have the unique opportunity to explore content produced by renowned international production companies, including music, films, and cinematography.

Turki Alalshikh, chairperson of the GEA, also revealed that Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan is sponsoring the Golden Pen Award. This award aims to encourage the adaptation of influential literary works into films, fostering a deeper connection between literature and cinema in Saudi Arabia.

These initiatives collectively aim to enhance cultural experiences, support local industries, and position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for arts and entertainment.