# Saudi Arabia Launches Nationwide Performing Arts and Cultural Heritage Initiatives New programs across six cities aim to revitalize traditional arts and empower local creative talent. - **Source:** [Asharq Al-Awsat English](https://english.aawsat.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-05 - **Topic:** [culture](https://brifing.si/c/culture) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/c3cc37fa-b0ba-47c6-8da3-7edb3e7059e3 ## Nationwide Performing Arts Tour The Theater and Performing Arts Commission will host a series of performances across six Saudi cities from November 11 to December 19, 2026. The program features theatrical shows, puppet performances, and a traveling circus. These events aim to offer immersive experiences while showcasing traditional arts rooted in each city's unique cultural heritage. ## Scheduled City Performance Circuit Events begin at Riyadh's U Walk complex before moving to Dammam, Buraidah, Hail, and Taif. The tour concludes at the Jeddah Promenade in mid-December. Venues will remain open daily from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., providing consistent access for the public to engage with the commission's diverse range of artistic and interactive segments. ## Empowering Creative Talent These performances serve as a strategic effort to develop the national theater sector and empower creative professionals. By expanding the presence of performing arts in public spaces, the commission seeks to enhance the skills of local artists. This initiative provides a platform for creators to connect directly with audiences across the Kingdom. ## Vocational Training in AlUla Madrasat Addeera in AlUla has opened applications for its 2026–2027 vocational training program focused on design and handicrafts. Targeting young women, the seven-month course combines design principles with practical training using local materials. It prepares participants to create customized products and corporate gifts inspired by the region's natural environment and cultural identity. ## Reviving Historical Craftsmanship Established as AlUla's first girls' school, Madrasat Addeera has evolved into a creative hub since 2019. The center focuses on reviving traditional crafts and historical arts by integrating international expertise. This educational approach ensures that ancient techniques are preserved while equipping the local workforce with modern skills for professional design and production studios. ## Historic Jeddah Cultural Tourism Historic Jeddah, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a key destination in the current Saudi Winter program. The district features distinctive architecture, such as wooden rawashin, and narrow alleyways reflecting its history as a gateway to the Two Holy Mosques. Visitors can explore museums, traditional markets, and various heritage-focused cultural activities. ## Preserving Architectural and Musical Legacy Landmarks like Nassif House and the Red Sea Museum offer insights into Jeddah's trade history and social evolution. The Tariq Abdulhakim Museum specifically highlights the nation's musical heritage, while venues like Zawiya 97 host exhibitions on traditional crafts. These spaces play a vital role in safeguarding the city's architectural identity for future generations. ## Strategic Cultural Development Goals These combined initiatives reflect the Ministry of Culture's broader strategy to revitalize historic sites and promote the arts. By integrating heritage preservation with modern vocational training and public performances, the Kingdom aims to establish itself as an international tourism destination. These efforts collectively strengthen the cultural sector's contribution to society and economic growth. ## Sources covering this story - https://english.aawsat.com/node/5337999 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._