Saudi Heritage Commission and ICESCO Partner to Train Experts in Heritage Site Registration

Riyadh, February 13, 2025 — The Saudi Heritage Commission, chaired by Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, signed a specialized executive program with the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) to train specialists in registering heritage sites on the organization’s lists.

Context and Background

The agreement, formalized in Riyadh on Thursday, underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage on the international stage. The program is part of the Heritage Commission’s broader strategy to boost the regional and global visibility of Saudi cultural assets and to equip local experts with the skills needed to prepare nomination files that meet rigorous international standards.

Key Details

Under the executive program, the Heritage Commission will oversee implementation in close cooperation with ICESCO. The initiative focuses on developing qualified personnel who can effectively preserve cultural heritage for future generations, ensuring that Saudi heritage sites receive proper recognition and protection. The program aligns with ICESCO’s mission to support educational, scientific, and cultural endeavors in the Islamic world.

International and Regional Implications

This partnership strengthens Saudi Arabia’s role as a leader in cultural heritage preservation within the Islamic world and beyond. By training specialists in international registration processes, the Kingdom enhances its ability to showcase its historical and archaeological treasures, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and tourism. It also positions Saudi experts as key contributors to global heritage conservation networks.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The initiative directly supports Vision 2030 objectives of diversifying the economy and promoting cultural enrichment. Developing a skilled workforce in heritage management boosts the Kingdom’s soft power and attracts international visitors, contributing to a vibrant society and sustainable tourism sector. This long-term vision ensures that Saudi heritage is preserved and celebrated for generations to come.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the purpose of the program signed between the Saudi Heritage Commission and ICESCO?

A1. The program aims to train specialists in registering heritage sites on ICESCO’s lists, enhancing the capacity of Saudi experts to prepare nomination files according to international standards.

Q2. Who attended the signing ceremony?

A2. The signing ceremony was attended by Minister of Culture and Heritage Commission Chairman Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, representing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to cultural preservation.

Q3. Which organization partnered with the Saudi Heritage Commission?

A3. The partner is the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), a specialized agency focusing on education, science, and culture in the Islamic world.

Q4. When and where was the agreement signed?

A4. The agreement was signed in Riyadh on February 13, 2025, as announced by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Q5. How does this program fit into the Heritage Commission’s strategy?

A5. It supports the commission’s strategy to boost the regional and international presence of Saudi cultural heritage and enhance experts’ abilities to meet international standards.

Q6. Who will implement the program?

A6. The Heritage Commission will manage and oversee implementation in cooperation with ICESCO, ensuring effective training and capacity building.

Q7. What skills will the training program develop?

A7. The program will develop skills in preparing heritage site nomination files, including documentation, evaluation, and application processes aligned with international criteria.

Q8. Why is heritage site registration important?

A8. Registration on international lists recognizes the universal value of sites, ensuring protection, awareness, and potential funding for preservation efforts.

Q9. How does this initiative support Saudi Arabia’s global cultural role?

A9. It strengthens the Kingdom’s leadership in cultural heritage preservation, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and showcasing Saudi history to the world.

Q10. What is ICESCO’s role in the Islamic world?

A10. ICESCO promotes cooperation among member states in education, science, and culture, supporting heritage protection and sustainable development across the Islamic world.

Q11. How does this program align with Vision 2030?

A11. It aligns with Vision 2030 by diversifying the economy through cultural tourism and developing human capital in heritage management.

Q12. What types of heritage sites are likely to be nominated?

A12. Saudi Arabia has numerous archaeological, historical, and natural sites, including those in AlUla, Diriyah, and other regions recognized for their cultural significance.

Q13. Will the program involve international experts?

A13. The collaboration with ICESCO likely includes access to international expertise and best practices in heritage site registration.

Q14. How long is the executive program expected to run?

A14. The duration has not been specified, but such programs typically span multiple phases to ensure thorough training and capacity building.

Q15. What are the benefits for Saudi experts?

A15. Experts gain skills to handle complex nomination processes, increasing the number of Saudi sites recognized internationally and enhancing their professional development.

Q16. How many specialists will be trained?

A16. The number of trainees has not been disclosed, but the program aims to develop a qualified workforce capable of preserving cultural heritage effectively.

Q17. Does this program impact tourism?

A17. Yes, registered heritage sites often attract tourists, supporting Saudi Arabia’s goal to boost tourism as outlined in Vision 2030.

Q18. What is the significance of Prince Badr’s involvement?

A18. His presence underscores the high-level support for cultural heritage preservation and the strategic importance of the partnership with ICESCO.

Q19. Has Saudi Arabia previously registered sites with ICESCO?

A19. Yes, Saudi Arabia has several sites on ICESCO’s Heritage List, and this program aims to expand that recognition through better-prepared nominations.

Q20. What is the next step after the program?

A20. The next step involves implementing training modules and preparing nomination files for Saudi heritage sites to be considered for ICESCO registration.

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