Global Forum of UNESCO Creative Cities Network Concludes in Al-Ahsa

The Global Forum of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network concluded yesterday in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, following a three-day gathering of representatives from 42 creative cities specializing in handicrafts and folk arts worldwide. Hosted by Al-Ahsa Municipality in collaboration with the Al-Ahsa Governorate, Al-Ahsa Development Authority, the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, the Heritage Commission, and sponsored by the Abdul Moneim Al-Rashed Humanitarian Foundation, the forum marked a significant milestone in showcasing Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage and creative industries on an international stage.

Context and Background

Al-Ahsa’s hosting of the forum coincided with Saudi Arabia’s designation of 2025 as the “Year of Crafts,” a national initiative that underscores the deep-rooted cultural significance of traditional crafts in the Kingdom. This alignment highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving its intangible cultural heritage while fostering innovation and global collaboration. The UNESCO Creative Cities Network itself brings together cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development, and Al-Ahsa—already recognized as a UNESCO Creative City for Handicrafts and Folk Arts—is a natural host for such a gathering.

Key Details

The forum featured a series of dialogue workshops and presentations on global best practices in the development of crafts and folk arts. Participants explored themes such as artisan empowerment, sustainable production, and the integration of modern technology with traditional techniques. Field visits were organized to key heritage sites, including the historic Al-Qaisariya Market, the Craftsmen Market, the Craftsmen House, and the FabLab affiliated with the Abdul Moneim Al-Rashed Humanitarian Foundation. Delegates also experienced major cultural events such as the Processed Dates Marketing Festival and the Handicrafts Festival, which offered immersive insights into the region’s artisanal traditions.

Implications and Impact

The forum’s conclusion represents a milestone for cultural diplomacy and economic diversification in Saudi Arabia. By hosting creative cities from across the globe, the Kingdom strengthens its position as a hub for cultural exchange and innovation. The event also bolsters the visibility of Saudi artisans, opening new markets and collaboration opportunities for local crafts. Regionally, Al-Ahsa’s role as a UNESCO Creative City enhances the Gulf’s cultural footprint internationally, aligning with broader efforts to promote soft power and sustainable cultural tourism.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This forum directly advances Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by promoting cultural heritage as a driver of economic diversification, tourism, and quality of life. The “Year of Crafts” and the forum together exemplify the Kingdom’s strategy to empower its creative economy while preserving its unique identity. As Saudi Arabia continues to open to the world, events like this build bridges of mutual understanding and lay the groundwork for a vibrant, sustainable cultural sector that benefits both citizens and global partners.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the UNESCO Creative Cities Network?

A1. The UNESCO Creative Cities Network is a global initiative that brings together cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development. It covers seven creative fields: crafts and folk arts, design, film, gastronomy, literature, music, and media arts.

Q2. When and where did the Global Forum take place?

A2. The Global Forum took place in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, from February 6 to 8, 2025. It concluded on February 8, 2025, after three days of activities.

Q3. How many cities participated in the forum?

A3. Representatives from 42 creative cities specializing in handicrafts and folk arts from around the world participated in the Global Forum. These cities are members of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

Q4. Who organized the Global Forum?

A4. The forum was organized by Al-Ahsa Municipality in collaboration with Al-Ahsa Governorate, Al-Ahsa Development Authority, the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, and the Heritage Commission. The Abdul Moneim Al-Rashed Humanitarian Foundation sponsored the event.

Q5. Why is 2025 significant for Saudi Arabia’s crafts?

A5. Saudi Arabia designated 2025 as the “Year of Crafts,” a national initiative highlighting the deep-rooted cultural significance of traditional crafts. It aims to celebrate Saudi craftsmanship heritage and promote its creative industries globally.

Q6. What topics were covered in the forum’s workshops?

A6. The workshops covered global best practices in the development of crafts and folk arts, including artisan empowerment, sustainable production, and integrating modern technology with traditional techniques.

Q7. Which heritage sites did participants visit?

A7. Participants visited the historic Al-Qaisariya Market, the Craftsmen Market, the Craftsmen House, and the FabLab affiliated with the Abdul Moneim Al-Rashed Humanitarian Foundation.

Q8. What cultural events were explored during the forum?

A8. Delegates explored the Processed Dates Marketing Festival and the Handicrafts Festival, which showcased local traditions and artisanal products.

Q9. How does Al-Ahsa relate to UNESCO?

A9. Al-Ahsa is recognized as a UNESCO Creative City for Handicrafts and Folk Arts. It is also home to the Al-Ahsa Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting its cultural and natural significance.

Q10. What is the main goal of the forum?

A10. The main goal is to celebrate and promote Saudi Arabia’s rich craftsmanship heritage, highlight its creative industries, and showcase the skills of Saudi artisans on an international stage.

Q11. How does the forum support Saudi artisans?

A11. The forum increases the visibility of Saudi artisans, opening new markets and collaboration opportunities. It also facilitates knowledge exchange with global peers, helping artisans adopt best practices.

Q12. What is Vision 2030’s role in the forum?

A12. Vision 2030 drives Saudi Arabia’s strategy to diversify the economy and enhance quality of life. The forum supports this by promoting cultural heritage and the creative economy as key pillars of sustainable development.

Q13. How does the forum boost cultural tourism?

A13. By attracting international delegates and highlighting heritage sites and festivals, the forum promotes Al-Ahsa and Saudi Arabia as cultural tourism destinations, aligning with Vision 2030’s tourism goals.

Q14. What is the FabLab mentioned?

A14. The FabLab is a digital fabrication laboratory affiliated with the Abdul Moneim Al-Rashed Humanitarian Foundation. It integrates modern technology with traditional crafts, fostering innovation among artisans.

Q15. What is the “Year of Crafts” initiative?

A15. The “Year of Crafts” is a 2025 national initiative in Saudi Arabia that emphasizes the cultural importance of traditional crafts. It includes events, exhibitions, and programs to preserve and promote craftsmanship.

Q16. Did the forum include only Saudi participants?

A16. No, the forum included representatives from 42 creative cities worldwide, making it an international gathering. Saudi participants included local officials, artisans, and organizers.

Q17. What is the significance of Al-Qaisariya Market?

A17. Al-Qaisariya Market is a historic market in Al-Ahsa, known for its traditional architecture and role in local commerce. It is a key heritage site that reflects the region’s cultural identity.

Q18. How does the forum contribute to sustainable development?

A18. By promoting crafts and folk arts, the forum supports sustainable economic activities that preserve cultural heritage. It encourages environmentally friendly practices and community-based development.

Q19. What was the role of the Abdul Moneim Al-Rashed Humanitarian Foundation?

A19. The foundation sponsored the forum and operates the FabLab. It is a philanthropic organization that supports cultural and humanitarian initiatives in Saudi Arabia.

Q20. What are the expected outcomes of the forum?

A20. Expected outcomes include strengthened international partnerships, increased recognition of Saudi craftsmanship, knowledge exchange, and enhanced cultural tourism. The forum also lays groundwork for future creative city collaborations.

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