Saudi Arabia sets up traditional arts institute in ongoing cultural sector development drive

Saudi Arabia’s ministry of culture has given the nod for a new Royal Institute for Traditional Arts as part of efforts to develop the Kingdom’s cultural sector.

State news agency SPA reported on Wednesday (March 31) the new institute’s remit includes to raise public awareness of the traditional arts at home and abroad, providing grants for industry-related research, and promoting international cultural exchange.

The institute will also offer educational programmes through apprenticeships, academic and short courses.

The organisation will overlook traditional arts including in visual arts, textile and fashion, books, performing arts, museum and heritage studies.

The Kingdom’s drive to develop the cultural landscape started with the 2016 launch of the Saudi Vision 2030 that was designed to move the economy away from its heavy reliance on hydrocarbons.

The Ministry of Culture was created in 2019 when it released its vision document that set out three objectives: the promotion of culture as a way of life, enabling culture to contribute to economic growth, and the creation of opportunities for global cultural exchange.

The aim is for the local art and culture sector to contribute around 4.6 billion riyals annually ($1.2 billion) to the country’s GDP.

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