DGDA Launches Second Edition of Diriyah Horizons

The Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) has officially launched the second edition of its summer youth capacity-building initiative, “Diriyah Horizons,” in collaboration with six partner entities. The program, announced in a DGDA news release, offers 17 workshops across arts, culture, leadership, technology, heritage, and creative production, targeting youth aged 9 to 17. Running until August 15, 2024, the initiative aims to enrich knowledge, instill values, and cultivate skills while empowering participants to become community ambassadors who honor the traditional customs of Diriyah.

Context and Background

The Diriyah Horizons initiative forms part of DGDA’s broader efforts to engage young people in cultural and educational activities that align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. Diriyah, a historic area in Riyadh, is being transformed into a global cultural and tourism destination under Vision 2030, and engaging the next generation is key to preserving its legacy. By collaborating with entities such as the Heritage Authority, King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah), Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts, King Abdulaziz Center for Cultural Communication, Tuwaiq Academy, and the Saudi Arabian Archery Federation, DGDA ensures a diverse and enriching experience for participants. This second installment builds on the success of the inaugural edition, further establishing Diriyah as a hub for youth development and cultural preservation.

Key Details

The program will run from Sunday to Thursday, 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm, offering six creative tracks rooted in Diriyah’s values and heritage. The Arts track includes workshops on natural dye making, Arabian horse sculpting, and calligraphy. Creative Production covers photography, filmmaking, and theater arts. The Culture track focuses on Majlis etiquette, Saudi hospitality, and performing arts such as Al Ardah and As Samri. Leadership workshops address volunteering, public speaking, and recycling. Additionally, participants can explore 3D design and manufacturing, metaverse techniques, archery, archaeological excavation, and traditional adobe construction techniques in the heritage track. These activities are designed to enhance cultural and historical awareness, foster innovation, stimulate creativity, develop practical solutions to real-world challenges, and strengthen leadership capabilities.

Implications and Impact

Through Diriyah Horizons, DGDA underscores the importance of corporate social responsibility by creating a high-quality, engaging environment that enables young individuals to gain valuable insights and skills. Participants will enhance their abilities in effective communication, decision-making, and teamwork, positively influencing their personal growth and creating a lasting impact on their mindset as they become valuable members of society. This initiative not only empowers youth but also contributes to the cultural and social fabric of the Kingdom, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to nurturing future leaders and preserving its rich heritage.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The Diriyah Horizons initiative directly supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by investing in youth development, promoting cultural heritage, and fostering innovation and creativity. As the Kingdom continues to diversify its economy and enhance its global standing, programs like this ensure that young Saudis are equipped with the skills and values needed to drive future progress. By empowering youth to become community ambassadors, DGDA contributes to a vibrant society and a thriving economy, aligning with the Vision’s objectives of creating a robust educational ecosystem and preserving cultural identity.

20 Questions

Q1. What is Diriyah Horizons?

A1. Diriyah Horizons is a summer youth capacity-building initiative launched by the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) to develop skills and values in youth aged 9 to 17 through workshops and activities.

Q2. When does the second edition of Diriyah Horizons run?

A2. The program runs until August 15, 2024, with activities from Sunday to Thursday, 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Q3. Who are the partners collaborating on Diriyah Horizons?

A3. Partners include the Heritage Authority, King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah), Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts, King Abdulaziz Center for Cultural Communication, Tuwaiq Academy, and the Saudi Arabian Archery Federation.

Q4. What age group is targeted by Diriyah Horizons?

A4. The initiative targets youth aged 9 to 17 years old, aiming to enrich their knowledge and cultivate their skills and capabilities.

Q5. How many workshops are offered in the second edition?

A5. There are 17 workshops covering arts, culture, leadership, technology, heritage, and creative production.

Q6. What are the six creative tracks in Diriyah Horizons?

A6. The tracks are Arts, Creative Production, Culture, Leadership, Heritage, and Technology, each offering specialized workshops based on Diriyah’s values and heritage.

Q7. What activities are included in the Arts track?

A7. The Arts track includes workshops on natural dye making, Arabian horse sculpting, and calligraphy, fostering creativity and cultural appreciation.

Q8. What does the Creative Production track cover?

A8. It covers photography, filmmaking, and theater arts, enabling participants to explore modern creative expression.

Q9. What cultural practices are taught in the Culture track?

A9. The Culture track focuses on Majlis etiquette, Saudi hospitality, and performing arts like Al Ardah and As Samri.

Q10. What skills are developed in the Leadership track?

A10. Leadership workshops include volunteering, public speaking, and recycling, aiming to strengthen decision-making, communication, and teamwork abilities.

Q11. What technology-related workshops are offered?

A11. Participants can learn 3D design and manufacturing, as well as metaverse techniques, preparing them for future technological advancements.

Q12. What heritage activities are included?

A12. Heritage activities include archery, archaeological excavation, and traditional adobe construction techniques, connecting youth with Saudi history.

Q13. How does Diriyah Horizons empower youth to become community ambassadors?

A13. By instilling pride in Saudi heritage, enhancing cultural awareness, and developing leadership and communication skills, participants are prepared to represent their community positively.

Q14. What is the significance of Diriyah in this initiative?

A14. Diriyah is a historic area in Riyadh being developed as a cultural and tourism hub under Vision 2030, making it an ideal setting for youth to learn about their heritage.

Q15. How does DGDA demonstrate corporate social responsibility through this program?

A15. DGDA provides a high-quality, engaging environment that offers valuable learning experiences, positively influencing youth growth and creating a lasting impact on society.

Q16. What are the long-term benefits for participants?

A16. Participants gain new skills, practical experience, and enhanced abilities in communication, decision-making, and teamwork, preparing them for future roles as active contributors to society.

Q17. How does Diriyah Horizons align with Vision 2030?

A17. It supports Vision 2030 by investing in youth development, promoting cultural heritage, and fostering innovation, contributing to a vibrant society and thriving economy.

Q18. How can interested youth enroll in the program?

A18. Enrollment is available through the DGDA website at the Diriyah Horizons enrollment page.

Q19. What makes the second edition of Diriyah Horizons unique?

A19. The second edition expands on the first with a broader range of workshops and tracks, offering more diverse opportunities for youth to explore their interests and develop skills.

Q20. What is the overall goal of Diriyah Horizons?

A20. The goal is to enrich knowledge, instill values, and cultivate skills in youth, empowering them to become community ambassadors who honor Diriyah’s traditions and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s future.

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