The culture and heritage sector, under the Quality of Life Program, achieved significant results in 2025, exceeding targets across key indicators while launching strategic initiatives that enhanced the Kingdom's cultural presence and economic contribution.

Landmark openings

Among the sector's major milestones was the inauguration of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy in Madinah, a global platform featuring a permanent museum, traveling exhibitions, research grants, a business incubator, and an artist residency program supporting calligraphers, emerging talents, researchers, and cultural institutions.

The Red Sea Museum also opened in Historic Jeddah, showcasing more than 1,000 artifacts and artworks across 23 galleries, including ceramics, incense burners, navigation instruments, maps, rare manuscripts, and contemporary works by Saudi and international artists.

Targets exceeded across the board

Cultural activity expanded significantly, with cultural event days reaching 6,314, exceeding the target of 3,010, while cultural facilities increased to 94, surpassing the target of 87. The sector's workforce grew to 282,709 employees, above the target of 247,000, and locally published books reached 12,879 titles.

In national heritage, accessible heritage sites reached 232, while visitors to national heritage and UNESCO-listed sites rose to 14.1 million, exceeding the target of 7.19 million. Saudi Arabia also participated in 71 international cultural events, surpassing the target of 34 and reflecting the growing global reach of Saudi culture.

Supporting Vision 2030

These achievements highlight the sector's continued progress in supporting Saudi Vision 2030 goals by strengthening national identity, expanding cultural participation, and establishing the Kingdom as a leading global cultural destination.

Image source: SPA Images