Stephen Hitchen begins role as British ambassador to Saudi Arabia

The new British ambassador to Saudi Arabia Stephen Hitchen has now formally started his role. (Supplied)
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Updated 19 August 2025
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Stephen Hitchen begins role as British ambassador to Saudi Arabia

  • Hitchen brings extensive Middle East experience to the role, having previously served as the British ambassador to Iraq from 2023 to 2025

RIYADH: The new British ambassador to Saudi Arabia Stephen Hitchen has now formally started his role, the UK’s embassy in Riyadh announced on Tuesday.

He has moved to Saudi Arabia with his family and succeeds Neil Crompton who completed his tenure in July.

On his arrival in the Saudi capital, Hitchen commented: “My appointment as British ambassador to Saudi Arabia is the greatest honor of my life. Our two kingdoms have enjoyed a long friendship, and we both have proud histories and high ambitions for the future.”

“My family and I have already enjoyed the famous Saudi hospitality, and we look forward to exploring your beautiful mountains, desert, towns and cities,” the ambassador added.

He brings extensive Middle East experience to the role, having previously served as the British ambassador to Iraq from 2023 to 2025, and as Director for Middle East and North Africa (National Security) within the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office from 2016 to 2019.

His career has included postings across the region, including Kuwait, Jordan, and Egypt, along with specialist roles focusing on Iran and counter-terrorism.


New filmmaking initiative in AlUla aims to boost Saudi creative talent

Updated 15 December 2025
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New filmmaking initiative in AlUla aims to boost Saudi creative talent

  • Efforts aim to support young talent, contribute to growth of Kingdom’s film sector

ALULA: Villa Hegra, in collaboration with Film AlUla, has launched a specialized filmmaking program to develop cinematic skills and support creative talent, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

The initiative reflects Villa Hegra’s commitment to strengthening cultural and cinematic activity while fostering an inspiring environment for content creators and film enthusiasts.

The program offers training courses and workshops covering all stages of film production, from scriptwriting and directing to cinematography, editing, and post-production.

These efforts aim to support young talent and contribute to the growth of the Kingdom’s film sector, the SPA added.

Villa Hegra also runs educational and interactive programs for children to develop their talents and enhance their creative abilities.

The programs include workshops that simplify scientific concepts and integrate them with modern artistic practices, creating a learning environment that encourages discovery and innovation.

They have attracted strong student participation across the governorate due to their hands-on, interactive approach, which enhances children’s thinking and creativity.

The initiatives are implemented in collaboration with French and Saudi institutions, reflecting cultural diversity and international partnerships while improving the quality of educational content for younger generations.

Villa Hegra is the first joint Saudi-French cultural foundation based in AlUla. Launched in October, it supports the region’s cultural scene by providing educational platforms that develop skills among Saudi children and youngsters, while strengthening AlUla’s presence on the international cultural stage.