Saudi Culture Ministry launches folklore competition

The Saudi Embassy in Egypt holds an artistic ceremony for the Saudi heritage on the occasion of the National Day on Sept. 23, 2019. (SPA)
Updated 26 September 2019
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Saudi Culture Ministry launches folklore competition

  • The competition, which will run for two months

RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Culture has announced the launch of the folklore competition, as part of its project to document the Kingdom’s national heritage through reviving Saudi folklore.

The competition, which will run for two months, was launched on Wednesday. It aims to motivate all members of the community to participate in documenting folklore treasures through video or audio clips in three tracks: Dance, music, tales and legends.

There will be 10 winners for each track. Winners of the competition will receive prizes of up to SR1 million ($266,655).  

In the dance track, contestants are required to record a folk dance from a region of the Kingdom that has a historical significance. The submission should include information about the dance. 

In the music track, contestants should submit a folk music piece from a region in the Kingdom that has historical significance, and they may use popular instruments. 

In the tales and legends track, participants are required to submit a recording of popular oral narratives that have a historical significance in the Kingdom.


Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons

Updated 11 January 2026
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Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons

  • It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content

TAIF: A special section highlighting key Saudi literary figures forms part of the Writers and Readers Festival in Taif.

The area explores the lives of distinguished writers, poets, and authors who have shaped the Kingdom’s creative landscape, influencing literature, journalism, theater and intellectual thought.

It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the festival runs until Jan. 15 and features 42 prominent publishing houses from Saudi Arabia and overseas, offering visitors the chance to explore the latest works in literature, philosophy and general knowledge.

Meanwhile, the festival’s interactive murals section engages visitors with openwork art panels, allowing them to contribute to the city’s features and identity.

The murals depict Taif’s natural and historical landmarks, including Al-Hada Mountain, the Taif rose gardens, and traditional Hijazi palaces. Others are inspired by Souq Okaz, a historic literary and commercial center linked to the region’s poetic heritage.

Designed by a visual artist, they blend folk-inspired elements with imaginative expression, creating a collaborative experience that celebrates the city’s beauty and brings art closer to the public.