Al-Ahsa: Governor of Al-Ahsa Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr patronized today's launch of the Creative Cities Forum. The forum brings together 42 cities recognized for their excellence in handicrafts and folk arts within UNESCO's Creative Cities Network. Organized by Al-Ahsa Municipality, the three-day event serves as a platform for cultural exchange and collaboration.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Prince Saud and the attendees enjoyed performances of traditional folk arts and a documentary showcasing Al-Ahsa's rich handicraft heritage. The event also featured the signing of a Twinning Agreement between Al-Ahsa Creative City from Saudi Arabia and Madaba Creative City from Jordan.
The governor highlighted how Al-Ahsa Creative City, through integrated efforts, has contributed to achieving key objectives that link education with cultural and creative activities, ensuring the sustainability of handicrafts and folk arts. The prince added that over the past years, Al-Ahsa has shared its expertise in preserving these traditions with other creative cities worldwide through numerous international meetings and forums.
He noted that Al-Ahsa's hosting of UNESCO Creative Cities of Crafts and Folk Arts reflects its rich cultural heritage and long-standing craftsmanship, placing it among the world's leading creative cities.
The forum aligns with Saudi Arabia's designation of 2025 as the Year of Crafts, celebrating the deep-rooted significance of traditional crafts in Saudi culture. The initiative aims to highlight the Kingdom's creative industries, showcase high-quality handmade artifacts, and introduce Saudi artisans' exceptional craftsmanship to the international community.