UNESCO adds Sadu weaving to intangible heritage list

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Updated 17 December 2020
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UNESCO adds Sadu weaving to intangible heritage list

JEDDAH: The Saudi and Kuwaiti traditional form of weaving, Sadu, has been added to UNESCO’s Intangible Heritage list.
The change was announced during UNESCO’s annual meeting, held on Dec. 14-19, 2020.
This achievement reflects the importance placed on preserving and promoting culture by King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Sadu weaving is the eighth Saudi item to be added to UNESCO’s list, and represents another part of the Kingdom’s efforts to document and showcase its intangible national heritage locally and internationally.
Sadu weaving is an ancient tribal weaving craft that artistically portrays Arabian nomadic people’s rich cultural heritage.
It was first practiced to meet the basic needs of communities, and later became one of the most important features of human heritage in the Kingdom. It is known for its vibrant colors, designs and patterns.
Saudi Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan noted the importance of registering intangible cultural heritage items on the UNESCO’s list on Wednesday, as they represent the civilizational depth of the Arabian Peninsula.
“Sadu weaving is one of the authentic heritage items in our country. This year, it was used in the design of the logo of the G20 Summit hosted by the Kingdom,” he said.
The minister confirmed that all relevant authorities are continuing efforts to enlist new items on UNESCO’s prestigious list, to preserve and shed light on Saudi Arabia’s rich culture.


Economic growth and resilience at heart of 2nd AlUla Emerging Market Economies Conference

Updated 03 February 2026
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Economic growth and resilience at heart of 2nd AlUla Emerging Market Economies Conference

  • Event on Feb. 8 and 9 will bring together ministers, governors of central banks, policymakers, economic experts and international financial institutions
  • Emerging-market economies a ‘pivotal element’ in global economic system due to effect they have on growth and stability, says Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan

RIYADH: The second annual AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies, which Saudi Arabia will host next week, offers a platform to exchange views on global developments and discuss policies and reforms that support inclusive growth and strengthen economic resilience, the Kingdom’s finance minister said.

The event on Feb. 8 and 9 will bring together finance ministers, governors of central banks and policymakers, alongside economic experts and representatives of international financial institutions.

Organized by the Saudi Ministry of Finance in partnership with the International Monetary Fund, it takes place as emerging-market economies face mounting challenges amid rapid global economic change.

Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan said the decision to host the conference reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to efforts that support global financial and economic stability, and highlights the growing influence of emerging economies on worldwide growth.

Emerging-market economies represent a “pivotal element” in the global economic system due to the direct impact they have on economic growth and stability, he added.

“The AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies provides a unique platform for exchanging views on global economic developments, and discussing policies and reforms that will support inclusive growth and enhance economic resilience, in light of broader international cooperation that contributes to confronting common challenges,” Al-Jadaan said.

Kristalina Georgieva, managing director of the IMF, said the event would help emerging economies deal with growing uncertainty driven by technological change, demographic shifts and geopolitical tensions.

“The AlUla conference provides a vital platform for emerging economies to discuss how they can navigate the risks and embrace the opportunities ahead,” she said.

“In these times of sweeping transformations in the global economy, policymakers face a more challenging and uncertain environment. Countries should work together to strengthen resilience through sound macroeconomic and financial policies.”