In 2024, the Ministry of Culture worked to achieve the strategic goals of the cultural system, aligned with the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030. These efforts led to remarkable achievements that strengthened national identity, propelled the cultural sector forward, and enhanced Saudi Arabia’s cultural and artistic presence locally and internationally.
Through initiatives linked to Vision 2030, the Ministry met most of its targets, a reflection of its strong commitment to developing the cultural sector and elevating the Kingdom’s standing on the global stage.
Across its three strategic aspirations, it delivered tangible results. In line with devoting culture to a way of life, the Saudi Film Commission's "Film Deposit" initiative has successfully registered over 1,000 Saudi and Arab films. Agreements were also signed to deposit 55 films as part of the 2024 Film Deposit Initiative, helping preserve the nation’s cinematic output. The Ministry documented cultural and natural heritage from across the Kingdom, alongside the experiences of cinema and television pioneers from Saudi Arabia, the Gulf, and the Arab world. This included producing 25 interviews as part of the Oral History of the Arab Screen project to safeguard the memory of Arab cinema and honour its contributors. In support of research, 100 grants were awarded through the Arab Translation Observatory, with a focus on AI in translation, localisation, and audiovisual translation, advancing the translation sector and building expertise.
Under the “Culture to Economic Growth” aspiration, the Ministry showcased 22 Saudi brands in the “100 Saudi Brands” programme at the EMERGE pop-up event in Mexico. This gave designers an exceptional platform to connect with global audiences and present Saudi creations that combine authenticity with elegance, strengthening the Kingdom’s presence in the international fashion scene. In film, Saudi Arabia reinforced its global position by joining the Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI) and the Asian Film Commissions Network (AFCNet), helping the private and non-profit sectors engage with international film bodies and benefit from their expertise, supporting the growth of the Saudi film industry and its global footprint.
Under the “culture to enhance the Kingdom’s international standing” aspiration, the Ministry won the “Best Brand” award in Germany, recognising outstanding projects and brands worldwide and highlighting Saudi Arabia’s excellence in visual identity and creative marketing strategies. The Ministry also staged the “Saudi Orchestra Masterpieces” concert in London, where the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir performed works celebrating Saudi heritage, alongside joint performances with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra that strengthened Saudi–British cultural exchange.
In heritage preservation, the Kingdom took part in the annual meeting of UNESCO Creative Cities in Braga, Portugal, presenting the Documentation and Atlas Project. This initiative safeguards intangible cultural heritage linked to food, demonstrating Saudi Arabia’s commitment to protecting its cultural identity and enhancing its standing on the world stage.
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