Agreement to boost Saudi music sector

The agreement was formalized in Riyadh by Paul Pacifico, CEO of the Saudi Music Commission, right, and Guido Zimmermann, president of Steinway & Sons EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa). (SPA)
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Updated 11 December 2025
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Agreement to boost Saudi music sector

  • Music Commission’s deal with Steinway & Sons to empower, accelerate development
  • Guido Zimmermann: Saudi Arabia is entering an extraordinary chapter in its cultural journey, and we are honored to support this transformation

RIYADH: The Saudi Music Commission, one of 11 sector-specific commissions under the Ministry of Culture, has signed an agreement with Steinway & Sons, the piano manufacturer. The deal aims to empower and accelerate the development and professionalization of the Saudi music sector.

The agreement was formalized in Riyadh by Paul Pacifico, the CEO of the Saudi Music Commission, and Guido Zimmermann, president of Steinway & Sons EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa). Both entities are to collaborate to empower talent, enhance professional training, and expand access to world-class musical instruments.

The collaboration will advance artistic and educational plans and will serve as a foundation for enabling significant commercial partnerships and business investment in the Kingdom’s music sector. These efforts reflect the Music Commission’s continued participation in supporting and fostering sustainable growth.

The Saudi Music Commission and Steinway & Sons will explore joint initiatives to develop apprenticeship programs for piano technicians; enable joint participation in Music Commission initiatives and events; and facilitate connections with cultural, educational, and retail partners across Saudi Arabia.

Pacifico said: “This partnership with Steinway & Sons is a milestone in our mission to further empower musical talent across Saudi Arabia. By combining global expertise with local creativity, we are building a lasting framework for education, performance, and craftsmanship.

“Our work at the Saudi Music Commission is not only nurturing talent and creativity but is also actively shaping a music market that welcomes industry leaders, generates investment, and supports sustainable growth for businesses and practitioners alike. Together, we remain committed to nurturing music’s enduring role at the heart of Saudi life and culture, inspiring generations to come.”

Zimmermann said: “Saudi Arabia is entering an extraordinary chapter in its cultural journey, and we are honored to support this transformation. This partnership with the Saudi Music Commission reflects our long-term commitment to education, talent development, and the craft of music making.”


KSrelief continues aid projects in Afghanistan and Yemen

Updated 14 December 2025
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KSrelief continues aid projects in Afghanistan and Yemen

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief distributed 750 food parcels in Afghanistan reported state news agency SPA on Sunday. 

The aid agency benefited 750 families living in Baghlan province in Afghanistan as part of the agency’s Food Security and Emergency Support Project in Afghanistan for 2025–2026. 

Meanwhile in Yemen, KSrelief provided medical services to 7,815 people in Yemen during the month of November. 

As part of the Cholera Emergency Response project in Yemen, KSrelief provided comprehensive cholera screening and confirmed no suspected cases were recorded.

The project also conducted 673 awareness and health education sessions, benefiting 13,860 individuals.