Culture Minister Of Saudi Arabia Meets French Counterpart To Announce Partnership With Centre Pompidou

Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan, the Minister of Culture and Governor of the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), recently met with France’s Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati, during his visit to France. The RCU announced that a section of the Centre Pompidou will be named in gratitude to Saudi Arabia once it reopens. This decision aligns with the museum's new layout.

The collaboration between Saudi Arabia and France extends beyond naming a section of the museum. A cultural programme will run until 2030, focusing on modern and contemporary Saudi artists. This initiative will utilise the Centre Pompidou's resources and expertise. It aims to introduce young audiences to art history and facilitate exchanges between cultural professionals.

The partnership is part of a strategic agreement between Saudi Arabia and France in cultural sectors. This collaboration was established under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and French President Emmanuel Macron. It aims to use culture as a bridge for international dialogue and sustainable development.

As part of this agreement, the RCU will contribute 50 million euros to support Centre Pompidou 2030. This project focuses on renovating and developing the Centre Pompidou's facilities, enhancing its educational and artistic programmes. The goal is to reinforce its status as a leading global cultural institution.

The RCU also announced plans for the (Arduna) exhibition at the AlUla Arts Festival in January 2026. Organised with Arts AlUla, Centre Pompidou, and the French Agency for AlUla Development, this event will showcase new artworks. It aims to foster dialogue among international artists through workshops and live performances.

This collaboration highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to promoting culture as a key element of comprehensive development under Vision 2030. It strengthens AlUla’s role as a global hub for creativity where heritage meets innovation.

The broader Saudi-French cooperation includes developing the Museum of Contemporary Art in AlUla. Cultural ties between both nations have been growing rapidly in recent years, reflecting their shared vision for cultural advancement.

With inputs from SPA