Italy Partnership | The Royal Commission for AlUla

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Partnership with the Italian Ministry of Culture

His Royal Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Culture, and the Italian Minister of Culture, Gennaro Sangiuliano, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Venice, Italy on 19/05/2023 aimed at fostering cultural cooperation and exchange between the two nations, and both agreed on launching cultural cooperation projects specific for AlUla.

This partnership will bring numerous benefits to AlUla, enhancing its cultural landscape and solidifying its position as a global hub for cultural heritage and artistic expression. The cooperation agreement in the Culture Sector includes:

Archaeological Exploration and Preservation

Collaborative efforts in archaeology will lead to new discoveries and the preservation of AlUla’s rich historical sites, ensuring their protection for future generations.

Restoration and Conservation

Italian expertise in restoration will support the Royal Commission for AlUla’s (RCU) ongoing efforts to maintain and conserve AlUla’s unique heritage, blending traditional techniques with modern practices.

Architectural and Design Innovation

The partnership will foster the exchange of ideas in architecture and design, enhancing the aesthetic and functional aspects of AlUla’s cultural projects.

Visual and Performing Arts

Collaborative projects in visual arts, theatre, and performing arts will bring new artistic experiences to AlUla, enriching the cultural life of the community and visitors.

Film, Literature, and Publishing

Joint initiatives in filmmaking, literature, and publishing will highlight AlUla’s stories and heritage, reaching a global audience and promoting cultural understanding.

Culinary Arts

The exchange of culinary traditions will enhance AlUla’s gastronomy scene, offering diverse and rich culinary experiences to locals and tourists alike.

Educational and Training Programmes

The MoU includes the exchange of experts, training programmes, workshops, and seminars, which will build the capacities of AlUla’s cultural practitioners and specialists.

Strategic Projects and Knowledge Exchange

Launching joint strategic projects and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and information will drive innovation and excellence in AlUla’s cultural sector.

Cultural Collaboration

This partnership is a testament to the strong and historic relations between Saudi Arabia and Italy, and it marks a new chapter in cultural collaboration. By working closely with Italian cultural institutions, RCU aims to elevate AlUla’s cultural initiatives to new heights, benefiting both the local community and the international cultural landscape.

Cultural Collaboration

This partnership is a testament to the strong and historic relations between Saudi Arabia and Italy, and it marks a new chapter in cultural collaboration. By working closely with Italian cultural institutions, RCU aims to elevate AlUla’s cultural initiatives to new heights, benefiting both the local community and the international cultural landscape.

In May 2022, RCU signed an MoU with Slow Food to preserve local culinary resources in AlUla, focusing on education, biodiversity, and sustainable food systems. In May 2023, a twinning programme was launched with Matera Municipality under the umbrella of a partnership with the Italian Ministry of Culture to enhance cultural ties and promote sustainable development. In July 2023, RCU collaborated with La Venaria Reale to raise cultural heritage awareness and facilitate knowledge exchange with Saudi specialists.

International Cultural Dialogue

In September 2023, the partnership celebrated 90 years of Saudi-Italian diplomatic relations with a special exhibition in Rome, showcasing AlUla’s heritage and strengthening cultural partnerships. In April 2024, RCU participated in Milan Design Week and Salone del Mobile to showcase Saudi creative initiatives, fostering cultural exchange and collaboration with international designers. Additionally, in April 2024, the Wadi AlFann showcase was launched at the Venice Art Biennale to promote Saudi artistic talent and encourage international cultural dialogue.

Through these initiatives, RCU continues to foster cultural exchange, ensuring that AlUla’s rich heritage and artistic achievements gain recognition and appreciation on the global stage.

Matera Twinning Agreement

RCU and the Italian city of Matera have launched an exciting twinning programme aimed at preserving and promoting their rich cultural heritage. The signing ceremony took place at the Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient cave dwellings. This partnership celebrates Matera’s 30th anniversary as a World Heritage Site and aligns with AlUla’s historic significance, home to Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra. See below the key benefits of the twinning programme.

Cultural Exchange and Preservation

Cultural Exchange and Preservation

AlUla will benefit from shared expertise in preserving its 2,000-year-old Nabataean heritage, enhancing conservation efforts through joint initiatives. The collaboration will focus on innovative ways to connect culturally curious individuals with AlUla’s rich history, leveraging Matera’s experience as a European Capital of Culture.

Educational and Economic Development

Educational and Economic Development

The agreement includes educational exchanges that offer residents of both cities opportunities to learn about different cultures, fostering mutual understanding and personal connections. Economic benefits are anticipated through tourism, events, and cultural activities, driving local development and global recognition of AlUla’s heritage.

Social and Environmental Impact

Social and Environmental Impact

Emphasising sustainability, the partnership aims to create synergies in conserving UNESCO sites, promoting sustainable tourism, and ensuring environmental protection. Socially, the programme seeks to build a sense of shared cultural identity and pride among residents, drawing parallels between the revitalisation stories of AlUla and Matera.

Strategic Cultural Projects

Strategic Cultural Projects

The programme includes a calendar of activities covering diverse areas such as cinema, arts, archaeology, architecture, and design, inspired by Matera’s successful urban ecosystem. Collaborative projects will be operational and rich in cultural content, serving as engines of the economy and community development.