Latest news with #HistoricJeddah
Arab News
22-07-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Ministry of culture highlights 2024 achievements in historic Jeddah
JEDDAH: The Saudi Ministry of Culture has unveiled a series of landmark achievements in the revitalization of Historic Jeddah, illustrating continued progress under the directive of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Launched in 2021, the project plays a key role in the national strategy to preserve the Kingdom's heritage and enhance its cultural landscape, aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. In 2024, the ministry successfully restored 27 historic buildings, rehabilitated an additional 10 structures, and supported the stabilization of 39 others, fortifying the district's unique architectural identity. As part of broader adaptive reuse efforts, the first three heritage hotels opened their doors, delivering luxury experiences steeped in authenticity. This is the beginning of an initiative to transform 34 heritage buildings into boutique accommodations that merge cultural heritage with modern hospitality. Important archaeological findings further enriched Jeddah's historical narrative. Excavations at the Othman bin Affan Mosque revealed Ceylonese wooden fragments on mihrab pillars dating back to the 1st century AH (7th century CE). Also, the discovery of a 13th-century pottery shard reaffirmed Jeddah's long-standing status as a pivotal maritime and commercial hub linking the Islamic world to the Far East. In a milestone of urban regeneration, the ministry completed Phase I of the Al-Arbaeen Lagoon waterfront project, which included the removal of obstructive infrastructure to reconnect the sea with the historic Al-Bunt Port. In parallel, 90,000 sq. meters of green space were developed, significantly enhancing the environmental and visual quality of the district. To enhance operational readiness, 110 pieces of equipment were used to service a six-sq. kilometer area. Historic Jeddah is also going through a surge in cultural engagement. The Red Sea International Film Festival was hosted at Culture Square for the first time, attracting local and international audiences. Simultaneously, the ministry inaugurated the teamLab Borderless Jeddah museum, spanning 10,000 sq. meters, and launched a Performing Arts and Cinema Centre, offering immersive experiences that bridge traditional heritage with contemporary expression. A significant step in skills development was marked by the opening of the Royal Institute for Traditional Arts, which promotes local craftsmanship and empowers Saudi youth to participate in cultural restoration. To integrate leisure with heritage, the ministry introduced Irth, a concept store and cafe that blends cultural offerings with a modern hospitality experience. In support of long-term sustainability, the ministry signed six strategic agreements aimed at bolstering investment and enhancing cultural infrastructure. A dedicated digital tourism platform was also launched to provide comprehensive access to landmarks, events, and visitor services in the district. In 2024, more than 140 educational trips were organized, engaging 2,100 students in immersive cultural experiences. To enrich visitor journeys, 500,000 copies of the official visitor map were distributed. These efforts contributed to a record-breaking 5.7 million visitors to Historic Jeddah over the year, including 2.5 million during Ramadan. As part of the Historic Jeddah Master Plan, the Ministry of Culture is committed to restoration, infrastructure enhancement, and improving livability. These endeavors aim to position the district as a global destination for cultural tourism and creative industries, reflecting the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030 and celebrating the Kingdom's enduring cultural legacy.
Zawya
10-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Visitors to Saudi historical sites hit 6.5mln in 2024
RIYADH — The number of visitors to heritage and historical sites across Saudi Arabia during the year 2024 reached approximately 6.5 million, according to the Ministry of Culture. This is a significant indicator of the growing interest among the community members and tourists in the Kingdom's cultural destinations, the ministry pointed out. Similarly, more than 25,000 architectural heritage sites in various regions of Saudi Arabia were registered, as part of ongoing efforts to inventory and preserve the nation's cultural and architectural heritage. The Heritage Commission,, under the Ministry of Culture, stated that field teams continued carrying out survey and documentation programs, resulting in the inclusion of more than 1,100 new heritage sites in the National Register of Architectural Heritage in 2024, bringing the total number of registered sites to 3,646. The documentation process covers heritage buildings and sites in various regions, such as Historic Jeddah, Najran, Asir, and Tabuk, in addition to heritage villages and centers that were discovered and documented for the first time, using the latest digital scanning and drone technologies. The ministry report noted that heritage and historical sites such as Diriyah, AlUla, and Historic Jeddah topped the list of most attractive destinations, supported by the organization of cultural events, seasonal festivals, and heritage exhibitions that contributed to increased attendance rates. The report reflects the extent of the transformation in community awareness of the importance of national heritage, along with the ministry's role in leveraging it as a sustainable economic and tourism resource, in support of the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The vision goals place culture and heritage among the pillars of comprehensive development and enhances the Kingdom's presence on the global cultural map. © Copyright 2022 The Saudi Gazette. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
