Post by : Maya Rahman

The Global Handicraft Forum launched in Sakaka under the auspices of Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Culture. This significant event is designed to bring together artisans both locally and from around the world, aiming to enhance cultural connections. Prince Miteb bin Mishaal bin Badr bin Saud bin Abdulaziz officiated the opening on behalf of the Al-Jouf Region Governor, with Maha Al-Senan, Deputy Minister for Research and Cultural Heritage, also in attendance.

Hosted at the Al-Jouf Cultural Center, this two-day event is a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Culture, the Heritage Commission, and the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wrth). It forms part of the national Year of Handicrafts 2025 initiative and underscores the significance of preserving traditional crafts within Saudi culture.

Focusing on the representation of Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural identity through traditional handicrafts, the forum promotes the invaluable work of artisans dedicated to preserving these time-honored traditions. By showcasing the connection between handmade crafts and local history and artistic expressions, it fosters cultural pride.

A primary objective of the forum is to cultivate stronger partnerships between Saudi artisans and their international peers. It provides a collaborative platform for artisans, researchers, and experts to meet, share ideas, and gain insights from one another, ultimately enriching the craft sector and facilitating cultural exchange.

The forum also covers the role of traditional handicrafts in boosting cultural tourism in Saudi Arabia. As handicrafts attract visitors eager to explore local customs, the initiative aims to enhance the national economy and produce more job opportunities for craftsmen and women.

In addition to celebrating heritage, the forum delves into innovative concepts and contemporary techniques in the craft sector. Researchers present their latest findings while artisans discover ways to merge legacy skills with modern creativity, ensuring a balance between preservation and innovative advancement.

#Culture #GCC News #Saudi Arabia News #Gulf News