Saudi Culture Ministry Releases 2025 Calendar of Cultural Ecosystem Events
The calendar targets all segments of society and reflects the ministry's commitment to facilitating access to cultural content and ensuring public engagement and early preparation for upcoming events.
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Arab News
an hour ago
- Arab News
Ithra's Youth Summer Program ends with student-made creativity
DHAHRAN: The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, Ithra, concluded the fourth edition of its month-long Youth Summer Program with a grand finale on Thursday. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @ Held at Ithra's cinema, with its iconic vibrant colorful seats, the closing ceremony featured student-made film screenings, a piano performance and a spirited debate on AI's role in fostering future creativity. Running from July 7-31, the intensive program gave 30 people between the ages of 13 and 18 hands-on exposure to the arts of theater, cinema, music, creative writing and literature, among others. The curriculum was carefully curated, grounded in a creative learning methodology. It comprised 126 hours of educational content, 28 expert speakers and 10 specialized workshops, and included collaborations with entities such as the Architecture and Design Commission, and the Museums Commission. Now in its fourth year, Ithra's Youth Summer Program is one of the center's flagship initiatives aimed at nurturing Saudi Arabia's emerging creatives. For 15-year-old Toleen Farea, the experience offered an invaluable chance to playfully explore her interests in a streamlined way. 'The program covered many cultural fields, and each day they introduced new experts and topics, like history,' Farea told Arab News. 'The cinema part was my favorite — we made a film from scratch, using professional cameras and microphones. 'I used to be shy about theater and acting, but being with peers my age made it feel natural. It was my first time meeting many of the other participants,' she said. 'The experience was really great. It felt good to step outside the school environment and meet new people — some from my city but with different backgrounds, and even some from other places.' Fahad Al-Qahtani, a 15-year-old from Dammam, agreed. 'This program was a cultural one, and honestly, the experience was really beautiful,' he told Arab News. 'It introduced us to so many fields — from museums and libraries to design studios and much more. I spent my vacation doing something genuinely fun and meaningful. 'It wasn't just about learning from others; we also had the chance to turn our own ideas into something real — instead of just following someone else's concept,' he added. 'One of the activities we did was pottery. We connected it to architecture and design — how a broken piece of pottery can be repaired and turned into something beautiful again. It was inspired by the Japanese technique kintsugi. That idea really stuck with me: Even something that's been shattered can be brought back and made beautiful. 'Before this, I only made simple videos on my phone — little things I'd post online on TikTok, but this program gave me real filmmaking skills. It taught me the basics of cinematography, lighting, sound, editing — a bit of everything, really. I got to learn hands-on, and I even started thinking about how films are made behind the scenes. 'We also worked on a film that we're presenting today. I directed it. It's about a social issue: Repetition and routine,' he said. 'I don't want to spoil the ending, but the message is about breaking free from routine before it traps you. The film is only three minutes long, but I hope it makes people think. 'There were five films made, each with its own director. I directed just one of them. I'm now a director,' he said with pride. Following the films, Ithra hosted a special panel discussion featuring Mansour Al-Badran of the Saudi Film Festival, which was hosted at Ithra earlier this spring. Al-Badran spoke directly with the young directors. He offered encouragement, shared professional insights from the Kingdom's growing film scene and asked the students thoughtful questions about their creative processes, as well as the challenges they faced while filming. Though most of the students who presented live on stage were natural speakers, some were slightly nervous and the audience applauded warmly when a few temporarily froze. The majority of the programming was in Arabic, although some English was sprinkled in. Zaina Hejles, who took part last year when she was 14, returned this summer wearing a light blue vest with the word 'volunteer.' She told Arab News: 'Through this closing ceremony today, we're expecting a recap of everything that's happened this entire month. Everything that the students worked really hard for, it's all being showcased today. From their hands-on work to the movies to the debates, all of it is summed up today.' Reflecting on last year, she said: 'My focus was about acting — I was a grandma in a play. It was an interpretation of the Japanese book (by author Toshikazu Kawaguchi) 'Before the Coffee Gets Cold.' It was just a short little play about how you should savor your time and how life moves on so fast so you have to cherish it. 'I enjoy actually every single part, everything that this program offers — from the acting to the writing, the music. That's why I decided to join, because it really covers all of my interests,' she said. 'After that, I created deep, deep connections with so many people and also even with myself. I found out that I like things that I never knew I liked. I never knew I'd be this good at writing. I wrote a play now and I'm hoping to submit it in the Saudi program for plays. 'This program really brings out stuff in the youth that they didn't know they had. 'It was actually my mother's idea to join last year — I did not want to do anything. I wanted to spend time at home like any other teenager, but she really pushed for me to join because she was like 'what are you going to do at home, just sit on your phone?' I was like 'yes, exactly',' she said. 'But I'm honestly really happy I joined and I'm even more happy that they (Ithra) called me back a second time, asking me to come volunteer because this really is one of the best experiences you can have as a teenager. You're not going to get these years back. For me to be able to relive these moments twice, it's really something special.' Students are only allowed to enroll once, as the curriculum is repeated. Many — like Hejles — choose to return as volunteers, something both Farea and Al-Qahtani hope to do next summer.
Arab News
an hour ago
- Arab News
Madinah Book Fair offers a literary haven of culture and creativity
MADINAH: Literary and other creative offerings from more than 300 local, regional and international publishing houses and agencies are being showcased at the fourth annual Madinah Book Fair at King Salman International Convention Center. Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the fair, which began on Tuesday and continues until Aug. 4, and features more than 200 pavilions, offers visitors a chance to explore a rich cultural and literary experience that reflects Saudi Arabia's vibrant intellectual scene. Prince Salman bin Sultan, the governor of Madinah Region, was among the early visitors. Bassam Al-Bassam, the general manager of publishing at the commission, told Arab News that the organization is committed to the continuing development and enhancement of the event. 'At the end of last year's book fair, we collected feedback and comments from visitors and publishing houses, and based on them we introduced improvements,' he said. 'This year … we have introduced the Saudi publishing corner, which is focused on self-publishing authors, where they can present and sell their books. 'We (are) presenting rich and diverse cultural programs that will touch the people of Madinah. We also have a lot of activities and games for the kids. This comes from our belief that we need to invest in the love of books and a love of reading for the new generations.' Abdul Latif Al-Wasel, the commission's CEO, said: 'This year's Madinah Book Fair embodies the ongoing and unwavering support that the cultural sector in the Kingdom enjoys, further underscoring the importance of Madinah and its standing within the Saudi cultural landscape.' The fair offers readers and cultural enthusiasts an opportunity to explore latest book releases while engaging with authors, intellectuals and industry experts. Organizers said this year's event features a diverse cultural program designed to appeal to all interests, with the aim of fostering dialogue and strengthening Saudi Arabia's role in the regional and global literary landscape. Seminars, panel discussions and workshops cover a broad range of topics, from the power of language and the role of artificial intelligence in the advancement of knowledge, to the challenges of translation in efforts to bridge cultures. Other sessions explore the cultural impact of Hajj and Umrah, and historical stories about Madinah itself. The fair shines a spotlight on other creative offerings besides books. UK publisher Harper's Books and Creativity Products, for example, has been making waves this year among visitors looking for a creative outlet of their own. This is the third year the business has taken part in the event and its booth features a range of innovative products that combine art with relaxation. 'Everyone here is very nice, and every time we come we see great revenue,' said Motasem Abudahab, a representative of the company. 'We sell paintings that are easy to draw, or paint by numbers, allowing everyone to create their own art. It's therapeutic and the joy on people's faces is priceless.' The Harper's booth is once again proving popular this year, he added, attracting visitors looking for a way to unwind and engage in a fulfilling activity. 'There are a lot of happy people here. It's wonderful to see them enjoy the process of creating art.' Another booth attracting attention at the fair is that of Ana Al-Madinah, which specializes in virtual reality experiences that transport visitors 1,400 years back in time to the era of the Prophet Muhammad and his companions. 'Our participation offers a unique chance to live the experience of Madinah and Makkah as they were,' said company representative Ammar Mohammed. The experience gives visitors a chance to embark on a seven-minute journey through Madinah and an 11-minute exploration of Makkah, during which they visit historical landmarks as they appeared at the time and get a taste of what daily life was like back then. The immersive experience offers education and engagement in a novel format that has captivated attendees. The Ministry of Culture's display, the theme for which is the 'Year of Handicrafts,' has also been proving popular, officials said. 'This booth showcases traditional crafts from different regions of Saudi Arabia,' said Ghalya Kanaani. 'Each craft exemplifies the rich and diverse culture of our Kingdom, with a particular focus on the contributions of women in handicrafts. 'The vibrant displays celebrate the artistry and heritage of Saudi craftsmanship, making it a must-visit for those interested in cultural traditions.' Marvin Pepito, a representative of UAE-based publishing house Little Puffin, which specializes in English-language books, said: 'Madinah Book Fair is attracting many people eager to explore our diverse range of genres, from self-help to fantasy. 'The audience here is respectful and engaged, which makes my first experience truly memorable.' He noted a growing interest in English-language literature among attendees, adding: 'There are so many people who love books and are eager for quality content.' In line with the goals of the Saudi Vision 2030 plan for national development and diversification, the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission says it aims to build a solid and sustainable national publishing industry based on empowerment, rights exchanges, the marketing of Saudi content and its enhanced presence in international markets. From this perspective, the Madinah Book Fair represents not only a significant cultural event but a milestone in a long-term project to build a cultural sector that believes in the power of words and invests in the future of knowledge.
Arab News
4 hours ago
- Arab News
From Umm Kulthum to Mohammed Abdu, Indonesian woman goes viral singing Arabic classics
DUBAI: Whenever Gina Choerunisa shares her covers of Arabic classics with her Indonesian followers, praise usually pours in. But this week, something unexpected happened: One of her clips went viral — not at home, but in Saudi Arabia — suddenly bringing her into online fame. The video that was widely shared by Saudi netizens and soon made the rounds on various social media platforms across the Arab world was Gina's interpretation of one of the greatest hits by the celebrated Kuwaiti singer Abdallah Al-Rowaished. She only found out what was happening when TikTok's algorithm showed her a post in Arabic, featuring her video and mentioning her name. In the short clip, she holds her 1-year-old son and casually sings to the mirror Al-Rowaished's 'Ana Batbaa Galbi' (I follow my heart). 'We started checking it with my husband and realized that there were so many such posts. So many people were uploading it in Saudi Arabia and Yemen,' Gina told Arab News. 'I was so happy. I was so proud, because I've always loved Arabic songs ... When I perform here, in Indonesia, in every event I would include Arabic music.' The 21-year-old mother and homemaker from Bandung in West Java province, has been active online only since the beginning of this year. Lately, she has been posting and going live almost every day, supported by her husband who also loves Arabic classics and often accompanies her on the oud — the iconic pear-shaped string instrument central to Middle Eastern music. Both are self-taught performers. 'I love Arabic songs because their lyrics are rich in meaning, although singing in Arabic comes with many challenges, like the complex techniques needed to perform these soulful and tonally varied tunes,' Gina said. Among her most cherished artists, besides Al-Rowaished, are the late Umm Kulthum — the legendary Egyptian diva celebrated for her powerful voice, emotive performances, and richly poetic compositions — and Abu Bakr Salem, the Yemeni singer considered a pioneer of contemporary Arabic music in the Gulf. There are also Saudi stars, including Talal Maddah, credited with modernizing the Kingdom's musical scene, and Mohammed Abdu, the nation's most beloved and influential singer, often called 'The Artist of the Arabs,' whom Gina dreams of meeting someday. 'Mohammed Abdu is my favorite singer,' she said. 'If you ask whether I'd like to meet him, of course I would. Hopefully in the future.'
