Al-Ahsa Clinches Deputy Head Position At UNESCO Creative Cities Network

Al-Ahsa has been appointed as the deputy head of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in crafts and folk arts. This network includes 66 cities globally. Dr. Ibrahim Al-Shabith represents Al-Ahsa in this role. The city joined the network in 2015, following an initiative by Al-Ahsa Municipality.

This achievement is backed by several national bodies, including the municipality, Al-Ahsa Governorate, the Culinary Arts Commission, the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, the Heritage Commission, and the Royal Institute for Traditional Arts.

Al-Ahsa is renowned for its unique creative assets and rich cultural heritage in handicrafts and folk arts. The city has focused on integrating education with cultural and creative activities to ensure the sustainability of these traditional arts.

Over recent years, Al-Ahsa has shared its expertise in preserving handicrafts and folk arts with other creative cities worldwide. It has participated in numerous international meetings and conferences held in countries such as South Korea, Poland, France, the United States, Australia, and Brazil.

The city became the first Gulf city and third in the Arab world to join this prestigious network. It has fostered close cooperation in development programs among creative cities, emphasizing sustainable development and heritage preservation.

Focus on Sustainability

Al-Ahsa's efforts include developing general objectives that highlight the connection between education and cultural activities. This approach aims to enhance the sustainability of handicrafts and folk arts within the community.

The city also strives to exchange experiences with other member cities to foster integration within the network. This collaboration helps in sharing best practices and innovative approaches to preserving cultural heritage.

"This success is supported by national entities," said Dr. Ibrahim Al-Shabith. "We are committed to enhancing our cultural heritage through sustainable practices."

Al-Ahsa's dedication to preserving its cultural heritage while fostering international collaboration highlights its significant role within the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

With inputs from SPA