Al-Ahsa Governor Launches Creative Cities Forum With Participation From 42 Global Cities

The Creative Cities Forum was inaugurated under the patronage of Governor Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr in Al-Ahsa. This event, organised by Al-Ahsa Municipality, gathers 42 cities recognised for their excellence in handicrafts and folk arts as part of UNESCO's Creative Cities Network. The three-day forum serves as a platform for cultural exchange and collaboration among these cities.

During the event, attendees were treated to performances of traditional folk arts and a documentary highlighting Al-Ahsa's rich heritage in handicrafts. A significant moment was the signing of a Twinning Agreement between Al-Ahsa Creative City from Saudi Arabia and Madaba Creative City from Jordan. This agreement aims to foster closer ties and collaboration between the two cities.

Prince Saud emphasised that Al-Ahsa Creative City has made substantial contributions towards achieving key objectives that integrate education with cultural and creative activities. These efforts ensure the sustainability of handicrafts and folk arts. The governor noted that over recent years, Al-Ahsa has shared its expertise in preserving these traditions with other creative cities worldwide through various international meetings and forums.

The forum aligns with Saudi Arabia's designation of 2025 as the Year of Crafts, celebrating the deep-rooted significance of traditional crafts in Saudi culture. This initiative aims to highlight the Kingdom's creative industries, showcase high-quality handmade artifacts, and introduce Saudi artisans' exceptional craftsmanship to the international community.

Al-Ahsa's hosting of UNESCO Creative Cities of Crafts and Folk Arts underscores its rich cultural heritage and long-standing craftsmanship. This recognition places it among the world's leading creative cities. The forum provides an opportunity for these cities to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in preserving their unique cultural identities.

The event not only celebrates Al-Ahsa's achievements but also highlights its role in promoting cultural exchange on a global scale. By bringing together creative cities from around the world, the forum fosters collaboration and understanding among diverse cultures while showcasing the importance of preserving traditional crafts.

With inputs from SPA