Heritage Authority, Elm sign MoU for smart operation of Saudi Arabia’s cultural treasures

Saud9 Heritage Authority's CEO Jasir Al-Herbish and Elm CEO Abdulrahman Al-Jadhai signing the MoU on Wednesday in Riyadh. (SPA)
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Updated 08 July 2021
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Heritage Authority, Elm sign MoU for smart operation of Saudi Arabia’s cultural treasures

  • Saudi Heritage Authority and digital-solutions company Elm sign memorandum of understanding for smart management and operation of nation’s cultural treasures

RIYADH: The Saudi Heritage Authority has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Elm, a leading digital-solutions company, to cooperate in a number of ways. In particular, it relates to the protection of cultural heritage sites in the Kingdom through the use of digital systems and technical programs, along with the smart operation of the sites and enhancement of the visitor experience.

The agreement was signed at the authority’s headquarters in King Abdul Aziz Historical Center, Riyadh, by the organization’s CEO Jasir Al-Herbish, and Abdulrahman Al-Jadhai, the CEO of Elm.

It includes plans for consultative research to determine the current status of the protection of antiquities and urban heritage at archaeological and heritage sites in the Kingdom, along with levels of awareness in communities of the importance of preserving the nation’s heritage. In addition, there will be a study of the global methods of managing and operating cultural heritage sites in ways that enhance the experience for visitors by ensuring that they receive the best possible services.

The memorandum is in line with the aims of the Heritage Authority to protect, manage and sustainably develop cultural heritage sites and resources in Saudi Arabia, and to encourage the development and production of cultural heritage content through partnerships with government and private-sector organizations.

The objective of such cooperation is to harness capabilities to best serve the Kingdom’s national heritage, enhance the experiences of those interested in exploring it, and promote the nation’s historical and civilizational heritage locally and internationally.

 

 


France, Saudi collaborate on space for artists in Riyadh

Updated 16 January 2026
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France, Saudi collaborate on space for artists in Riyadh

  • L’Institut francais, Riyadh Art will open La Fabrique on Feb. 22
  • ‘New cultural chapter’ between the nations, says France envoy

RIYADH: L’Institut francais in Saudi Arabia and Riyadh Art, an initiative of the city’s royal commission, have announced the opening of La Fabrique, a space for artists, on Jan. 22.

The project is based in the Riyadh Art Hub in JAX District and will enable Saudi and French artists to create, experiment, and bring their visions to life, according to a press release from the organizers.

La Fabrique also offers the public a rare opportunity to witness creative production including movement performances, digital and immersive arts, photography, music, cinema, cuisine and poetry.

At its core, La Fabrique fosters artistic exchange between French and Saudi artists, fostering new encounters, shared practices, and co-creation.

The initiative is aligned with the vision shared by French President Emmanuel Macron and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who have placed cultural cooperation at the heart of the renewed Saudi-French strategic partnership.

Anchored in the ambitions of Vision 2030, La Fabrique is a part of Riyadh’s transformation into a major international cultural hub.

Developed in cooperation with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture, the project strengthens the long-standing cultural dialogue between the two nations, the press release stated.

Patrick Maisonnave, ambassador of France to Saudi Arabia, said: “La Fabrique embodies the spirit of a new cultural chapter between France and Saudi Arabia.

“By bringing our artists together, we are not only sharing techniques and traditions, we are opening a space where imaginations meet, new forms emerge, and creativity becomes a bridge between our two societies.

“This initiative reflects our belief that artistic dialogue is one of the most powerful ways to build understanding, trust, and a shared future. It stands as a concrete example of France’s contribution to the ambitions of Vision 2030.”