Saudi Arabia's National Heritage as Economic Catalyst

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has embarked on an ambitious journey to diversify its economy and enhance its cultural identity through the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative. A significant aspect of this vision is the emphasis on national heritage, which is poised to become a major economic driver for the Kingdom. This was highlighted by Prince Sultan bin Salman, a special adviser to King Salman and the founder of the Al-Turath (Heritage) Foundation, during the foundation's annual meeting at the Riyadh International Book Fair.

During his address, Prince Sultan stated, "National heritage will be the biggest driver of the economy under Saudi Vision 2030." This assertion underscores the importance of cultural preservation and promotion as vital components of the Kingdom's future economic landscape. The meeting, themed "Confident Steps Toward the Future," showcased a documentary film that chronicled the foundation's journey and its key initiatives over the past 28 years.

One of the highlights of the event was the screening of a documentary that celebrated the launch of the book "King Salman," an initiative by the Al-Turath Foundation, sponsored by Saudi Aramco. This book, which coincided with the 94th National Day, serves as a tribute to the life of King Salman and the legacy of the Kingdom's founder, King Abdulaziz, along with other Saudi rulers. Prince Sultan referred to the book as a "gift to the nation," emphasizing its significance in documenting the rich history of Saudi Arabia.

Furthermore, the Al-Turath Foundation has made remarkable strides in preserving the nation’s history through various means, including printing books, conducting research, and archiving historical photographs. Prince Sultan noted that the foundation has continuously evolved since its inception, contributing to the cultural fabric of the Kingdom.

The annual Riyadh International Book Fair, which features over 800 pavilions and attracts more than 2,000 publishing houses from 30 countries, serves as a platform for cultural exchange and literary appreciation. This year’s fair, themed "Riyadh Reads," includes a variety of events such as seminars, panel discussions, poetry recitals, and workshops, all aimed at fostering a love for literature and culture among the public.

In addition to the discussions on heritage, Prince Sultan also introduced the documentary film "Okath Al-Badr," which tells the stories of Prince Badr bin Abdul Mohsen bin Abdulaziz. This film, like many of the foundation's projects, aims to highlight the contributions of notable figures in Saudi history.

As Saudi Arabia continues to embrace its cultural heritage, the focus on national identity and history is not just about preserving the past; it is about building a future that honors the Kingdom's rich traditions while fostering economic growth. By investing in cultural initiatives, Saudi Arabia is not only enhancing its global image but also creating opportunities for future generations to engage with their heritage. This commitment to national heritage as a cornerstone of economic development is a promising step towards a vibrant and sustainable future for the Kingdom.