Saudi Arabia Opens Fifth Jusoor Exhibition in Indonesia

Saudi Arabia opened the fifth edition of the Jusoor Exhibition in Jakarta, Indonesia, on April 24, 2025, marking the largest event of its kind to date with a target audience of over one million visitors. The exhibition, organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in coordination with Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs, will run for 10 days and aims to highlight the Kingdom’s efforts in serving Islam and Muslims, its care for the Holy Quran and pilgrims, and its commitment to supporting humanitarian causes while promoting coexistence and peace.

The Jusoor Exhibition, which translates to “Bridges” in Arabic, represents a significant cultural and religious diplomacy initiative by Saudi Arabia. It showcases the Kingdom’s dedication to fostering international understanding and cooperation, particularly in the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation. The event features interactive activities and modern technological tools that reflect Saudi identity and culture, offering visitors an inspiring educational experience aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. This fifth edition builds on the success of previous exhibitions held in various countries, further solidifying Saudi Arabia’s role as a global leader in promoting moderate Islam and interfaith dialogue.

Context and Background

What is the significance of the Jusoor Exhibition being held in Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country? The Jusoor Exhibition is an initiative by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, designed to build bridges between Saudi Arabia and other nations through cultural and religious exchange. Since its inception, the exhibition has traveled to multiple countries, with each edition growing in scale and impact. The fifth edition in Jakarta is the largest yet, targeting over one million visitors from various segments of Indonesian society. This reflects the deepening ties between Saudi Arabia and Indonesia, two nations that share strong historical, religious, and economic connections.

Indonesia, with a population of over 270 million, of which approximately 87% are Muslim, represents a crucial partner for Saudi Arabia in Southeast Asia. The relationship between the two countries has been strengthened in recent years through high-level visits, agreements, and collaborative efforts in various fields. The Jusoor Exhibition serves as a cultural and religious bridge, allowing Indonesians to learn more about Saudi Arabia’s role in serving Islam, its rich heritage, and its modernization efforts under Vision 2030. The exhibition also provides a platform for showcasing the Kingdom’s advancements in technology and education, aligning with its broader goals of global engagement.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance has been instrumental in organizing such events, which are part of Saudi Arabia’s soft power strategy. By highlighting the Kingdom’s service to Islam, including the care of the Two Holy Mosques and the facilitation of Hajj and Umrah, the exhibition aims to foster goodwill and counter misconceptions. It also underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to humanitarian causes, as demonstrated through various aid programs and initiatives. The coordination with Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs ensures that the event resonates with local audiences and addresses topics of mutual interest.

Key Details

What can visitors expect from the Jusoor Exhibition? The 10-day event features a wide range of interactive activities and modern technological tools designed to provide an immersive experience. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase Saudi Arabia’s efforts in serving Islam and Muslims, including the latest developments in the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. The exhibition also highlights the Kingdom’s care for the Holy Quran, with displays of rare manuscripts and digital initiatives for Quranic studies. Additionally, the humanitarian dimension is emphasized, with information on Saudi aid programs and their impact in Indonesia and beyond.

The use of technology is a key component of the exhibition, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s push towards innovation and digital transformation under Vision 2030. Interactive screens, virtual reality experiences, and multimedia presentations allow visitors to engage with Saudi culture and heritage in a modern way. This approach not only attracts a younger audience but also demonstrates the Kingdom’s ability to blend tradition with progress. The exhibition also includes cultural performances, workshops, and seminars that promote the values of coexistence and peace, aligning with the message of moderate Islam that Saudi Arabia advocates.

The target audience of over one million visitors underscores the exhibition’s reach and popularity. Previous editions have drawn large crowds, and the fifth edition is expected to surpass previous records given Indonesia’s large Muslim population and the strong interest in Saudi Arabia’s religious and cultural offerings. The event is free to the public, ensuring accessibility for all segments of society. By engaging with Indonesians directly, the exhibition aims to strengthen people-to-people ties and create lasting impressions of the Kingdom’s hospitality and generosity.

International and Regional Impact

How does the Jusoor Exhibition contribute to Saudi Arabia’s international standing? The exhibition is a prime example of Saudi Arabia’s soft power diplomacy, using cultural and religious engagement to build positive relationships. In Southeast Asia, where Indonesia plays a pivotal role, the event reinforces the Kingdom’s image as a leader in the Muslim world. It also complements Saudi Arabia’s broader foreign policy objectives, which include promoting stability, economic cooperation, and moderate Islam. By showcasing its service to Islam and its humanitarian efforts, Saudi Arabia positions itself as a reliable partner and a force for good in the region.

Regionally, the exhibition strengthens ties between Saudi Arabia and Indonesia, which have been growing steadily. The two countries have cooperated on various fronts, including trade, investment, and counterterrorism. Indonesia has also been a key partner in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to promote moderate Islam, with exchange programs and educational initiatives. The Jusoor Exhibition further cements this partnership by providing a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue. It also sends a positive message to other Southeast Asian nations about the benefits of engaging with Saudi Arabia, potentially leading to similar initiatives in the future.

Economic and Strategic Significance

What economic and strategic benefits does the Jusoor Exhibition bring? While primarily a cultural and religious event, the exhibition has economic implications. It promotes Saudi Arabia as a destination for tourism, particularly for Umrah and Hajj, which are significant revenue sources. By showcasing the Kingdom’s modernization and hospitality, it encourages Indonesian Muslims to consider visiting Saudi Arabia, thereby boosting the tourism sector. Additionally, the exhibition can facilitate business connections, as it brings together officials, entrepreneurs, and influencers from both countries. This aligns with Vision 2030’s goal of diversifying the economy and increasing non-oil revenues.

Strategically, the exhibition enhances Saudi Arabia’s influence in Indonesia, a key player in ASEAN and the broader Islamic world. Strong ties with Indonesia can support Saudi Arabia’s regional interests, including countering extremism and promoting moderate Islam. It also opens avenues for collaboration in education, technology, and trade. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance’s efforts in organizing such events demonstrate the Kingdom’s commitment to using its religious and cultural assets for diplomatic purposes. As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its global footprint, initiatives like Jusoor play a vital role in building a network of partners and friends.

Vision 2030 Alignment

How does the Jusoor Exhibition align with Saudi Vision 2030? Vision 2030 is Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plan to transform the Kingdom economically, socially, and culturally. The exhibition directly supports several of its objectives, including enhancing the Kingdom’s global image, promoting cultural exchange, and showcasing its modernization. By highlighting Saudi Arabia’s efforts in serving Islam and its humanitarian work, the exhibition reinforces the values of moderation and coexistence that are central to Vision 2030. It also demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to technology and innovation, as seen in the interactive tools used at the event.

Furthermore, the exhibition contributes to the goal of increasing international engagement and soft power. Vision 2030 emphasizes the importance of building bridges with other nations and promoting mutual understanding. The Jusoor Exhibition is a tangible manifestation of this vision, as it brings Saudi culture and values to a global audience. It also supports the objective of boosting tourism and religious visitation, which are key pillars of the economic diversification strategy. Through such initiatives, Saudi Arabia is not only sharing its story but also inviting the world to be part of its journey towards a prosperous and inclusive future.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the Jusoor Exhibition?

A1. The Jusoor Exhibition is an initiative by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance to highlight the Kingdom’s efforts in serving Islam, its care for the Holy Quran and pilgrims, and its humanitarian work, while promoting coexistence and peace.

Q2. Where and when was the fifth edition held?

A2. The fifth edition was inaugurated on April 24, 2025, in Jakarta, Indonesia, and will run for 10 days.

Q3. Who organized the exhibition?

A3. It was organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance in coordination with Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Q4. What is the target audience size?

A4. The exhibition targets over one million visitors from various segments of Indonesian society.

Q5. What does “Jusoor” mean?

A5. “Jusoor” is Arabic for “Bridges,” symbolizing the exhibition’s role in building connections between Saudi Arabia and other nations.

Q6. What activities are featured at the exhibition?

A6. The exhibition features interactive activities, modern technological tools, cultural performances, workshops, and seminars that reflect Saudi identity and culture.

Q7. How does the exhibition reflect Saudi Vision 2030?

A7. It aligns with Vision 2030 by promoting cultural exchange, showcasing Saudi modernization, and enhancing the Kingdom’s global image and soft power.

Q8. Why is Indonesia significant for this exhibition?

A8. Indonesia is the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, making it a key partner for Saudi Arabia in promoting moderate Islam and strengthening people-to-people ties.

Q9. What is the duration of the exhibition?

A9. The exhibition will run for 10 days in Jakarta.

Q10. What humanitarian causes does the exhibition highlight?

A10. It highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting humanitarian causes, including aid programs and initiatives that benefit Indonesia and other nations.

Q11. How does the exhibition use technology?

A11. It uses interactive screens, virtual reality, and multimedia presentations to provide an immersive experience of Saudi culture and heritage.

Q12. What is the expected impact on Saudi-Indonesian relations?

A12. The exhibition is expected to strengthen bilateral ties, enhance cultural exchange, and foster greater cooperation in various fields.

Q13. Is the exhibition open to the public?

A13. Yes, the exhibition is free and open to the public, ensuring accessibility for all segments of Indonesian society.

Q14. What previous editions of the exhibition were held?

A14. Previous editions were held in various countries, each growing in scale and impact, with the fifth edition being the largest to date.

Q15. How does the exhibition promote coexistence and peace?

A15. Through its exhibits and programs, it promotes the values of moderate Islam, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among different cultures and religions.

Q16. What role does the Ministry of Islamic Affairs play?

A16. The Ministry organizes and oversees the exhibition, ensuring it effectively showcases Saudi Arabia’s service to Islam and its humanitarian efforts.

Q17. What economic benefits does the exhibition bring?

A17. It promotes Saudi tourism, particularly for Umrah and Hajj, and facilitates business connections, supporting Vision 2030’s economic diversification goals.

Q18. How does the exhibition showcase Saudi care for the Holy Quran?

A18. It displays rare manuscripts and digital initiatives for Quranic studies, highlighting the Kingdom’s dedication to preserving and promoting the Holy Quran.

Q19. What is the significance of the exhibition being the largest of its kind?

A19. It demonstrates the growing reach and popularity of the Jusoor initiative, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s successful soft power diplomacy and engagement with global audiences.

Q20. How can international audiences learn more about the exhibition?

A20. They can follow official Saudi channels, such as the Saudi Press Agency and the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, for updates and information.