Riyadh, September 30, 2025 – The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), an Aramco initiative, participated as a strategic partner in the first-ever Cultural Investment Conference, held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Hosted at the King Fahd Cultural Center in Riyadh on September 29–30, the event brought together global cultural leaders, investors, and policymakers to explore opportunities in the Kingdom’s growing cultural sector.
During the event, Ithra signed two key Memorandums of Understanding – one with the Saudi Cinema Association, supporting the Kingdom’s growing film industry, including hosting the Saudi Film Festival at Ithra in Dhahran; and another with Dammam Airports, aimed at enhancing the cultural experience of travelers through art and heritage displays at airport terminals.
Speaking at the event, Noura Alzamil, Head of Programs at Ithra, said: “These partnerships reflect our commitment to expanding cultural opportunities and empowering the next generation of creatives in the Kingdom. Through collaboration, we aim to unlock potential and build a thriving cultural economy aligned with Vision 2030.”
In a panel titled “Documenting Impact and Leadership”, Abdullah Alrashid, Ithra’s Director, highlighted the Center’s investment in people and ideas. He emphasized Ithra’s ability to support early-stage cultural projects with high social value, citing programs like Tanween Challenges and the Arabic Content Initiative, which have collectively created over 600 jobs and supported more than 50 startups in the past three years.
At the conclusion of the event, Ithra was honored as a strategic partner, with the recognition received by Sharifa Alamer, Head of Partnerships and Strategies.
The Cultural Investment Conference, organized by the Ministry of Culture, serves as a key platform to strengthen the role of culture in economic growth, national identity, and global positioning through strategic investments and collaborations.
