RIYADH (Rana Azeem) Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ahmad Farooq, presented a unique art exhibition in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, highlighting the history, culture and heritage of Diriyah, the historic birthplace of the Saudi state. Titled “Diriyah: Past & Present — Through the Eyes of an Ambassador,” the exhibition featured 18 paintings personally created by Ambassador Farooq, depicting Diriyah’s historic landmarks, natural landscapes and various aspects of Saudi Arabia’s past and present.
The exhibition was attended by His Royal Highness Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud as the Guest of Honour. The distinguished gathering also included General (Retd.) Raheel Sharif, Commander of the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC), along with prominent Saudi personalities, ambassadors from various countries, senior officials of diplomatic missions, diplomatic representatives, members of the artistic community, and representatives of the Pakistani and Saudi communities.
Ambassador Ahmad Farooq revealed that he began this creative project in 2023 and completed the paintings after three years of dedicated effort. Alongside his diplomatic responsibilities, he continued pursuing his passion for painting, translating his personal perspective and appreciation of Diriyah’s historical heritage onto canvas.
The collection features several significant locations, including the historic district of At-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Wadi Hanifa and other historical and cultural landmarks. According to Ambassador Farooq, Diriyah’s historical significance and Saudi Arabia’s remarkable development journey inspired him to undertake this project. He particularly highlighted the period when the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, served as Governor of Riyadh Region and supported efforts to preserve and restore Diriyah’s historical heritage.
Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud described the exhibition as a meaningful cultural expression of the deep-rooted relationship between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. He stated that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are two great nations that have stood together in the past and will continue to maintain their close relationship in the future. He also appreciated the ambassador’s choice of Diriyah as the subject of his artwork, noting that the area holds special significance for him and that he has been associated with its development, preservation and promotion for nearly 40 years.
Prince Sultan bin Salman also mentioned a proposal to visit another historical region of Saudi Arabia with Ambassador Ahmad Farooq, reflecting the potential for further cultural engagement and exchange.
Ambassador Farooq’s initiative highlights the fact that diplomacy extends beyond official meetings, political engagements and formal relations. Art, culture, history and creative expression can also play an important role in bringing nations closer, strengthening mutual understanding and promoting friendship among peoples.
“Diriyah: Past & Present” is more than an art exhibition; it represents a unique creative tribute by a Pakistani ambassador to Saudi Arabia’s rich history, culture and heritage, while presenting the longstanding brotherly relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia through the language of art.
