Minister Of Culture Highlights Cultural Significance In Declaring 2025 As The Year Of Handicrafts

The Saudi Cabinet has declared 2025 as the "Year of Handicrafts," a move praised by Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan. This decision highlights the cultural importance of handicrafts in Saudi Arabia, showcasing the creativity and talent of local artisans to a global audience. Prince Badr expressed gratitude to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their continuous support of culture and arts.

Prince Badr emphasised that the Ministry of Culture aims to instill pride in national identity through tangible and intangible cultural elements. This aligns with the National Culture Strategy under Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritises national identity and culture as key goals. He stated: "At the Ministry of Culture, we are working to instill pride in our national identity and all its associated cultural elements, whether tangible or intangible. This is one of the objectives of the National Culture Strategy, under Saudi Vision 2030, which has prioritized national identity and Saudi culture as ambitious goals."

The "Year of Handicrafts" initiative will celebrate this vital aspect of Saudi culture, which is central to national identity. Prince Badr noted that Saudi handicrafts reflect societal creativity, encompassing textiles, pottery, clothing, beadwork, copper products, sewing, dyeing, blacksmithing, gold and jewellery making. These crafts have been passed down through generations.

During this special year, the Ministry plans to enhance the visibility of Saudi handicrafts both domestically and internationally. The initiative will enable artisans to showcase their work at various events within the Kingdom and globally. It also aims to boost the economic contribution of these crafts while raising awareness about their cultural and historical significance.

Prince Badr acknowledged that King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's patronage has elevated Saudi culture's profile worldwide. Their support has strengthened its roots and unique aspects. He said: "Their patronage has elevated Saudi culture, solidified its roots and unique elements, and enabled the world to see the best of it."

The initiative not only celebrates artistic value but also seeks to integrate handicrafts into the local economy more effectively. By doing so, it underscores their civilizational importance alongside their economic potential.

This focus on handicrafts aligns with broader efforts under Vision 2030 to promote cultural heritage as a cornerstone of national identity. The initiative reflects a commitment to preserving traditional crafts while adapting them for contemporary relevance.

The "Year of Handicrafts" promises to be a significant milestone in recognising and promoting Saudi Arabia's rich cultural tapestry on an international stage.

With inputs from SPA