The program forms part of the Global Harmony 2 initiative, designed to promote cultural exchange and support broader development goals.

Organized by the Ministry of Media and the General Entertainment Authority, the cultural week aligns with national efforts to enhance quality of life and expand cultural engagement across communities.

Officials said the initiative also reflects long-standing cooperation and shared heritage between Yemen and the Kingdom.

Al-Eryani noted that the strong turnout demonstrates the value of such initiatives, which aim to bring people together through artistic expression and cultural storytelling.

He emphasized that the warm reception of Yemeni visitors reflects an enduring spirit of brotherhood and mutual support.

The minister also commended ongoing humanitarian and social initiatives that have benefited hundreds of thousands of Yemenis in recent months.

He said these contributions underscore the deep relationship connecting both countries and highlight the cultural week’s wider significance.

The visiting delegation included senior international representatives, among them Japan’s Ambassador to Yemen Yoichi Nakashima, US Embassy Charge d’Affaires to Yemen Jonathan Peccia, Chinese Embassy Charge d’Affaires to Yemen Zhao Cheng, and Turkiye’s Deputy Ambassador to Yemen Jihad Kocsuk.
Their presence underscored the global interest in Yemen’s cultural heritage and the value of cultural diplomacy.

Delegates and attendees praised the rich variety of displays, which featured traditional performances, handcrafted artifacts, and exhibitions showcasing Yemen’s regional diversity.

Many noted that the event offered an immersive experience that brought the country’s history and artistic traditions to life.

Pavilions throughout the venue recreated scenes from Yemeni villages and cities, providing visitors with a glimpse into local customs, architecture, and daily life.

Traditional attire from different regions was displayed, offering insight into Yemen’s cultural identity and environmental influences.

Visitors also enjoyed a range of musical performances and cultural showcases presented by more than 80 artists, highlighting Yemen’s distinctive rhythms, dances, and storytelling traditions.

The live showcases created an engaging atmosphere and allowed audiences to connect directly with the performers.

Craft pavilions featured silverware, bamboo products, traditional garments, and other handmade items that celebrated the skills of Yemeni artisans.

Demonstrations by craftspeople showed how local techniques have been passed down through generations.

Many Yemeni residents living in the Kingdom expressed their appreciation for the event, saying it provides an important space to reconnect with their heritage.

They noted that such cultural gatherings help reinforce identity while also introducing Yemen’s traditions to wider audiences.

Organizers said the event aims to support community cohesion and foster intercultural understanding at a time when cultural preservation remains essential.

They highlighted the collaborative nature of the initiative, which brings together government bodies, international partners, and cultural institutions.

Yemen Culture Week will continue until Nov. 28, featuring daily programs that include folk performances, interactive cultural workshops, and exhibitions dedicated to showcasing the depth of Yemeni culture.

Visitors can expect expanded displays, storytelling sessions, and activities that highlight historical narratives, artistic practices, and regional diversity.

As the event progresses, officials expect attendance to grow, reflecting increasing public interest in cultural exchange initiatives and community-centered events.

They said the cultural week stands as a meaningful platform for dialogue, creativity, and celebration of shared heritage.

The spotlight is currently on the Levant, bringing together traditions, performances and flavors from across the region.

Visitors arriving at the park are met with vibrant music, energetic shows and a festive atmosphere that reflects the rich heritage of Levantine culture.

The week opened with dramatic performances that blended modern entertainment with cultural artistry, creating an immersive and colorful start to the celebrations.

Circus groups, DJs and live musical acts took the stage on opening night, featuring well-known Lebanese performers who energized the crowd.

Musician Guy Manoukian and singer Wael Saab delivered standout performances, drawing large audiences and adding a memorable musical spirit to the event.

Alongside the Levant program, Egypt Week is continuing until Friday, giving visitors the chance to enjoy a mix of Arab cultural highlights.

Traditional dance and drumming groups filled the pathways of Suwaidi Park, leading families and children through guided parades with rhythmic beats.

Performers in bright cultural attire engaged with visitors warmly, adding an element of storytelling to each section of the park.

A major attraction of the festival is the bustling bazaar area, known as the “happiness culture” center, where artisans present their crafts.

The market features both traditional and modern handicrafts, with many vendors having decades of experience in their craft fields.

Syrian craftsman Mahmoud Al-Azwan, who has lived in the Kingdom for 16 years, shared his appreciation for the platform created for regional artists.

He has been practicing his craft for 40 years, specializing in Damascene artwork, wooden pieces and embroidered designs.

Al-Azwan expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase his heritage, noting that events like these strengthen cultural unity in meaningful ways.

He described each festival day as unique and inspiring, stating that every interaction brings a new moment to cherish.

He encouraged fellow artisans to pursue excellence in their craft, highlighting the strong support provided for artists in the Kingdom.

Another vendor, Anas Habib from Jordan, presented Palestinian embroidery,
Jordanian mosaic pieces and handcrafted pottery created by his team.

Habib, who has worked in the field for 15 years, flew to Riyadh specifically to join the cultural celebration.

He noted a strong sense of harmony among participants and visitors, with curiosity and cultural appreciation shaping the festival’s atmosphere.

Habib said the event encourages deeper connections across communities, as people learn about different traditions and histories.

He praised the enthusiasm shown by Saudi visitors, many of whom asked detailed questions about the origins of the crafts.

For him, the most rewarding moments came from seeing genuine interest, as families explored the stories embedded in each handmade piece.

Food vendors are also drawing significant attention, offering Levantine and Arab dishes that highlight regional diversity.

Egyptian vendor Ahmed Abd Al-Sagoor is serving popular classics, including shawarma, kibbeh and tabbouleh to eager guests.

He explained that the diverse dishes reflect shared cultural roots, while also showcasing unique culinary elements from each nation.

Levant Week will continue until Nov. 25, after which Yemen Week will take over the festival grounds.

Global Harmony will remain active in Suwaidi Park until Dec. 27, with upcoming showcases featuring Pakistan, Indonesia, Uganda and more.

The festival aims to strengthen cultural understanding across communities, offering an open space for families to learn, explore and celebrate diversity.

Running in Riyadh until Nov. 26, the event stands as a powerful platform that honors the role of Saudi women in preserving cultural identity while introducing innovative ideas that reflect the nation’s growing artistic confidence.

Visitors to the festival are welcomed into a warm atmosphere filled with storytelling, craftsmanship and cultural diversity, where more than 20 countries participate and share their unique crafts and traditions.

The gathering emphasizes empowerment, unity and inspiration, showing how artisans from different regions and backgrounds contribute to the shared language of creativity.

Saudi visitors like Rahaf Al-Harthi praise the festival for showcasing the exceptional abilities of Saudi women, many of whom continue to redefine traditional crafts through fresh interpretations and modern flair.

Al-Harthi expressed pride in seeing local talent celebrated on such a global stage, noting that the festival reflects the strength, dedication and artistic excellence of Saudi women throughout history.

One of the most admired crafts featured is Sadu weaving, a traditional Bedouin art that transforms wool into striking geometric patterns bursting with color and meaning.

The festival displays Sadu-inspired abayas, contemporary clothing, home décor and handcrafted accessories that honor the past while embracing modern design trends.

Rahaf and her sister Ohood, whose mother is a participating Sadu weaver, said their visit to Banan helped them appreciate the beauty, diversity and cultural significance of regional crafts.

They explained how women in earlier generations used limited resources to create clothing, tents and decorative items, proving their ingenuity and resilience—qualities still reflected in today’s artisans.

Ohood said that Banan reveals the rich variety of crafts found across Saudi Arabia, from Hail to Jouf and Madinah, each region bringing its own colors, symbols and techniques to the festival.

She encouraged visitors to explore the event, describing it as a meaningful experience that deepens understanding of national heritage while celebrating innovation.

Among the standout participants is Saudi artist Duha Akhdar from Al-Qatif, known for her intricate macrame and knot artistry inspired by old fishnets and maritime heritage.

Her work transforms simple rope into elegant hanging baskets, ornaments and decorative pieces, blending tradition with creativity in ways that resonate with visitors.

Akhdar uses tree branches—once integral elements of old homes—as bases for her macrame boats, carved with Arabic calligraphy and topped with beautifully knotted sails.

She has trained more than 600 individuals in macrame, including people with disabilities, making her art not only visually captivating but also socially uplifting.

Her interest in macrame began during her studies in Canada, where she observed how Mexican families preserved their knot-tying traditions across generations.

This inspired her to research Arab history, where she discovered similar techniques that date back centuries, encouraging her to revive and modernize the craft within Saudi Arabia.

Akhdar’s newer pieces include works inspired by the Kaaba, which she has presented to prominent Saudi leaders, reflecting her pride in cultural heritage and her desire to honor spiritual themes.

Her journey demonstrates how traditional crafts can evolve into meaningful art forms that strengthen cultural identity and inspire the next generation of makers.

The festival also welcomes global creators such as Georgia’s Nata Nikoleishvili, who, alongside her mother, produces handmade clothing using wool felting, natural dyes and plant-based prints.

Their participation highlights Banan’s international appeal and its mission to connect cultures through creativity, craftsmanship and shared artistic passion.

Saudi artist Afaf Dajam adds depth to the festival through her modern interpretations of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri, a regional art recognized by UNESCO for its cultural importance.

Her work explores the beauty of geometric wall designs traditionally created by women, blending history with contemporary artistic expression.

Dajam says Banan provides an inspiring environment where artists exchange ideas and learn from one another, discovering surprising similarities between Saudi crafts and those from India, Mexico and North Africa.

This exchange strengthens cultural appreciation and reinforces the universal language of creativity that binds artisans together across borders.

The event recreates scenes of lively trade, cultural expression and artistic displays that reflect the region’s long-standing heritage.

This edition carries additional significance as it honors Japan and the cultural legacy of Kyoto, marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan.

Organizers said the event aims to strengthen cultural understanding while showcasing traditions from both nations.

Earlier in the month, Riyadh hosted a ceremony commemorating the diplomatic milestone, where officials noted the resilience of bilateral ties.

They highlighted that cooperation between the two countries continues to support stability and shared development goals at regional and global levels.

Souq Al-Mawsim forms part of the broader Diriyah Season calendar, drawing visitors for its combination of food, performances and handcrafted goods.

The festival is running from Nov. 9 to Dec. 8 and offers daily programs featuring Saudi and Japanese elements side by side.

Visitors have described the event as an engaging experience that blends art, history and cross-cultural interaction. Many noted that the fusion of both cultures created a distinctive atmosphere that appealed to families, tourists and heritage enthusiasts.

Event organizers designed the souq using creative elements that integrate symbols, materials and motifs from both Saudi and Japanese traditions.

They said the intention was to provide a sensory journey that allows visitors to connect with the artistic spirit of the two cultures.

The site includes 20 shops offering handmade goods, local specialties and traditional clothing representing various regions. Fifteen restaurants operate throughout the souq, serving dishes inspired by Japanese and Saudi culinary traditions, alongside snacks and seasonal meals.

Dedicated areas demonstrate traditional Saudi cooking methods, allowing visitors to observe local dishes prepared using time-honored techniques.

Other areas present musical performances and artistic showcases that reflect Diriyah’s cultural identity.

The festival also offers interactive opportunities for creative exchange between Saudi and Japanese artists.
Booths throughout the venue allow painters, calligraphers, sculptors and craftspeople to present and discuss their work with visitors.

One of the cultural activities drawing attention is the display of the Japanese “hagoita,” a decorated wooden paddle used in hanetsuki, a traditional New Year’s game.
Participants can learn the basics of the game and observe how the paddle has evolved from a recreational tool into a decorative art piece.

Japanese players at the festival explained that the game resembles simplified badminton or tennis, involving a shuttlecock batted between players.
Although less commonly played today, the hagoita remains a valued New Year’s symbol in Japan, often featuring elaborate artwork.

In addition to cultural activities, the festival highlights the Al-Tawalie area’s historical significance.
The region once served as an important meeting point for trade caravans that traveled across the Arabian Peninsula during the First Saudi State.

Traders historically visited the area from distant regions, turning it into a hub for commercial and cultural exchange.
This heritage is now revived through Souq Al-Mawsim, which aims to reconnect modern audiences with the spirit of traditional markets.

Diriyah Season organizers said the festival’s purpose extends beyond entertainment, emphasizing preservation of local heritage and support for creative industries.
They aim to showcase the diversity of Saudi traditions while promoting international cultural dialogue.

The event’s mixture of handicrafts, performances, workshops and exhibitions continues to attract visitors of all ages.
Its setting at a historic location further strengthens its role as a cultural bridge linking the past with the present.

Souq Al-Mawsim’s focus on collaborative art, food, and heritage underscores efforts to expand cultural tourism in the region.
Organizers expect steady attendance throughout the season as more visitors arrive to explore the site’s activities.

Part of the highly anticipated Riyadh Season 2025, this massive attraction promises a unique blend of thrill, adventure, and family entertainment on an unprecedented scale.

Located near Boulevard City and Boulevard World, Beast Land spans over 188,000 square meters of pure excitement and innovation.

The new zone has been developed in collaboration with renowned American YouTube star and global content creator MrBeast, also known as Jimmy Donaldson.

Designed to push the boundaries of imagination, Beast Land combines rides, games, and live shows to create an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

The attraction is inspired by challenges that test courage, skill, and endurance, offering guests the chance to immerse themselves in action-filled adventures.

Among its highlights are more than 15 main rides and 14 extraordinary experiences that promise to redefine amusement in the region.

Signature attractions include the high-speed Viking Coaster, the towering Phantom XXL, the thrilling Top Spin, and a 50-meter-high bungee jump for the boldest adventurers.

Adding to the excitement, the dedicated Beast Arena will host 10 realistic competitive challenges designed around speed, precision, and reflexes.

These interactive games, including Tower Siege, Battle Bridge, and Warrior Challenge, encourage visitors to test their physical and mental abilities in fun, high-energy settings.

For families and younger guests, the zone also includes a specialized children’s play area, ensuring that every age group can join the adventure.

More than 20 food and beverage outlets will serve visitors throughout the park, offering a mix of international cuisines, snacks, and refreshing drinks.

This fusion of adrenaline and hospitality creates what organizers describe as “a comprehensive destination for adventure and entertainment.”

Beast Land’s design and layout integrate immersive theming, dynamic lighting, and futuristic architecture, setting new standards for regional attractions.

Each section is carefully crafted to tell a story, blending elements of fantasy, innovation, and challenge in a visually spectacular environment.

The project reflects the vision of the General Entertainment Authority to make Riyadh a global entertainment capital filled with creative and record-breaking attractions.

Riyadh Season has already gained international attention for introducing world-class entertainment experiences, and Beast Land adds yet another dimension to its growing legacy.

The new zone symbolizes the city’s ambition to compete with global entertainment destinations through innovation, technology, and creativity.

By partnering with MrBeast, the initiative also highlights the Kingdom’s efforts to collaborate with global influencers who inspire younger generations.

Visitors can expect world-class safety standards, high-quality infrastructure, and seamless digital ticketing systems for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Beast Land will open its gates daily, welcoming guests from 4:00 p.m. to midnight on weekdays and until 1:00 a.m. on weekends.

The attraction is expected to draw large crowds from across the Kingdom and beyond, offering both locals and tourists a new way to experience Riyadh Season.

With its combination of extreme rides, family zones, and interactive entertainment, Beast Land captures the essence of fun and adventure.

It stands as a shining example of how creativity, technology, and global collaboration can create unforgettable experiences.

As the countdown begins, excitement continues to build for what promises to be one of the most talked-about highlights of Riyadh Season 2025.

Beast Land is not just an entertainment zone — it is a celebration of imagination, courage, and joy, redefining what it means to play, explore, and be amazed.

Riyadh came alive with rhythm, color, and joy as Indian Culture Week took center stage at Global Harmony 2.

The event drew thousands of visitors and families who gathered to celebrate the spirit of cultural exchange through art, music, and performance.

Organized by the Ministry of Media in collaboration with the General Entertainment Authority, the celebration highlighted the growing cultural connection between India and Saudi Arabia.

It also forms part of the Quality of Life Program under Vision 2030, which aims to promote cultural diversity, social engagement, and creative expression throughout the Kingdom.

The festival’s opening ceremony began with a special performance by students from Dunes International School in Riyadh.

Their colorful dance and musical presentation set an uplifting tone, capturing the essence of Indian traditions blended with youthful energy.

Throughout the evening, visitors enjoyed a series of dazzling shows that reflected India’s rich heritage of art, movement, and storytelling.

Traditional Indian dance troupes performed folk and classical routines, accompanied by live drumming and melodious vocals.

A circus performance added a fun twist to the night, drawing laughter and applause from children and adults alike.

The carnival parade that followed brought the park to life, with performers in ornate costumes moving to rhythmic beats.

Floats inspired by India’s diverse regions showcased the country’s varied cultural identity — from Rajasthan’s royal flair to Kerala’s colorful traditions.

A dedicated children’s area offered interactive games, creative workshops, and family-friendly performances throughout the day.

Parents joined their children in activities that encouraged imagination and teamwork, adding a joyful and communal atmosphere to the festival.

Visitors also explored stalls featuring Indian handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, and artwork, all celebrating the skill and creativity of traditional artisans.

Food stalls serving authentic Indian cuisine filled the air with the aroma of spices, drawing long lines for dishes such as biryani, samosas, and jalebi.

For many attendees, the event was an opportunity not only to experience another culture but also to celebrate shared values of friendship and harmony.

Cultural exchange programs like Indian Culture Week play an important role in strengthening ties between nations through art and community engagement.

They allow people to experience diverse traditions firsthand, fostering understanding, respect, and collaboration.

The festival’s organizers emphasized that Global Harmony 2 was designed to create a welcoming environment for all cultures to connect.

Through music, dance, and storytelling, the event encouraged visitors to appreciate diversity as a source of creativity and inspiration.

Many Saudi families expressed admiration for India’s cultural vibrancy, while Indian residents felt pride in representing their homeland abroad.

Students and young professionals volunteered at the event, helping with logistics, hosting, and translation to ensure a seamless visitor experience.

The collaboration between local and international communities reflected the Kingdom’s growing role as a global center for cultural dialogue.

Events like these align with Saudi Vision 2030’s mission to enhance cultural tourism and position Riyadh as a hub of international celebration.

The initiative demonstrates how entertainment can also serve as education — deepening knowledge of world cultures through interactive participation.

Visitors left with colorful memories, new friendships, and a renewed appreciation for the role of culture in building bridges between people.

Indian Culture Week concluded with a spectacular fireworks display that illuminated the night sky above Global Harmony 2.

As the lights reflected across the crowd, the event stood as a reminder that joy, music, and art transcend borders and bring communities together.

Riyadh’s growing portfolio of international cultural festivals continues to highlight the Kingdom’s openness and commitment to global unity through creativity and celebration.

The festival, curated by Mami Kataoka, Li Zhenhua, and Sara Almutlaq, will feature 60 unique artworks by 59 artists from 24 different nationalities, including 35 newly commissioned pieces. This impressive lineup showcases the unity of artistic expression and highlights Riyadh’s rise as an international destination for creativity and innovation.

Festival Director Nouf Almoneef emphasized that Noor Riyadh is defined by the talent and vision of its artists, who use light as a universal language to connect cultures and inspire dialogue. The event aims to immerse visitors in interactive experiences that merge tradition with modern technology, transforming public spaces into glowing symbols of inspiration.

Among the standout installations is “Scenes of a Matrimony,” a special tribute to the late Safeya Binzagr, a pioneer of Saudi modern art and the first female Saudi artist to hold a solo exhibition in 1968. Her inclusion celebrates her legacy and the evolution of female artistry in the Kingdom.

Renowned international artists such as Michelangelo Pistoletto, James Clar, Ivana Franke, Monira Al-Qadiri, and Muhannad Shono will also contribute pieces that explore the role of light as both a medium and a metaphor for transformation. According to Kataoka, the festival’s curatorial lead, light represents change, beauty, and perception, offering audiences a moment of reflection amid the fast pace of modern life.

Noor Riyadh 2025 will unfold across six key locations in the capital — Qasr Al-Hokm District, King Abdulaziz Historical Center, stc Metro Station, KAFD Metro Station, Al-Faisaliah Tower, and JAX District. Each venue will offer a distinctive atmosphere where contemporary art meets the city’s historical and architectural landmarks, connecting Riyadh’s rich heritage with its futuristic ambitions.

The festival operates under the Royal Commission for Riyadh City and Riyadh Art, both dedicated to transforming Riyadh into one of the world’s most vibrant and creative cities. Riyadh Art has already brought more than 550 artworks to the public by over 500 Saudi and international artists, engaging millions of residents and visitors in shared artistic experiences. Noor Riyadh continues this mission by fostering creativity, cultural dialogue, and community connection.

The full list of participating artists reflects the festival’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, with creators hailing from Saudi Arabia, Japan, Italy, France, the United States, South Korea, Germany, and beyond. This fusion of local and international talent reinforces the Kingdom’s growing influence in the global art scene.

As Riyadh continues to evolve under Vision 2030, Noor Riyadh stands as a shining example of Saudi Arabia’s dedication to cultural development, innovation, and artistic excellence. The festival not only celebrates the beauty of light but also symbolizes the illumination of minds and hearts through art.

Each installation and performance will offer visitors an immersive experience, blending architecture, emotion, and technology into a radiant celebration of creativity. Noor Riyadh 2025 promises to inspire, connect, and transform — turning the city into a glowing masterpiece that celebrates imagination, diversity, and the boundless power of art.

Organized by the Embassy of Japan, the event took place at the Cultural Palace in the Diplomatic Quarter and reflected the strong friendship, mutual respect, and deep cultural connection between the two nations.

The festival attracted a large and diverse audience, including government officials, diplomats, cultural figures, and business leaders, all of whom gathered to commemorate seven decades of fruitful partnership.

The event served as a cultural bridge, strengthening understanding between the Saudi and Japanese people and celebrating the shared values of innovation, tradition, and respect that have defined their bilateral relations.

Throughout the day, visitors experienced a fascinating blend of traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. The festival featured a series of captivating performances, including Wadaiko drumming, which filled the venue with energy and rhythm, and Kabuki dance, a classical Japanese art form that combines graceful movement with expressive storytelling

. The soothing sounds of Tsugaru Shamisen, a traditional string instrument, added an authentic touch that transported guests to the heart of Japan’s cultural heritage.

Exhibits and workshops introduced visitors to Japanese crafts, calligraphy, origami, and ikebana (the art of flower arrangement), offering hands-on experiences that highlighted the artistry and precision deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

A special section of the festival showcased traditional Japanese clothing, such as kimonos and yukatas, allowing guests to explore the beauty and symbolism behind each garment.

Culinary enthusiasts enjoyed a taste of Japan through food stalls offering authentic dishes like sushi, ramen, and mochi, giving visitors a flavorful glimpse into Japan’s celebrated cuisine.

In addition to cultural displays, the festival also highlighted the growing economic and educational collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Japan.

An exhibition area featured several Japanese companies operating in the Kingdom, reflecting Japan’s active role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.

These companies showcased their contributions to technology, renewable energy, and industrial innovation, reinforcing the strong economic partnership between the two nations.

Japanese Ambassador Morino Yasunari expressed his pride in the enduring relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia, noting that their friendship has deepened through mutual respect, collaboration, and shared aspirations for development and peace. He emphasized that the 70th anniversary is not just a celebration of past achievements but a symbol of the new era of cooperation unfolding between the two countries.

Ambassador Yasunari also highlighted the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral ties. He said that cultural exchange serves as a bridge that connects people on a deeper level, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation. Through events like the Japan Festival, both nations can continue to learn from one another and build enduring connections that go beyond economic and political collaboration.

The festival’s success reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing openness to global cultural exchange under Vision 2030, which encourages the development of arts, heritage, and international cooperation.

The Kingdom’s emphasis on cultural diplomacy aligns perfectly with Japan’s long-standing tradition of promoting peace and friendship through culture and education.

As visitors explored the festival’s exhibitions and performances, they witnessed the harmony between Japan’s rich traditions and modern innovation—a quality that resonates with Saudi Arabia’s own transformation journey. From art and music to technology and cuisine, the event showcased how both nations are balancing their cultural heritage with forward-looking progress.

The Japan Festival in Riyadh served as more than just a commemoration of diplomatic history—it became a celebration of friendship, creativity, and shared vision.

It reflected how two nations, despite geographical distance, are united by mutual respect, collaboration, and the desire to build a better future together.

By combining culture, education, and innovation, the festival strengthened the foundation for future cooperation and mutual growth, marking a new chapter in the ever-evolving relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia.

Through events like this, Riyadh continues to affirm its role as a global center for cultural dialogue, welcoming the world to celebrate diversity, heritage, and the power of human connection.

The event, which saw the signing of 28 agreements and memoranda of understanding worth over SR3.6 billion ($960 million), underscores the Kingdom’s growing role as a global leader in sustainable agriculture and environmental innovation.

Held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, the four-day exhibition features nearly 450 companies and organizations from 34 countries, including 11 national pavilions.

The event serves as a vibrant platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies in plant, animal, and fish production, aligning with the Saudi Vision 2030 goals of achieving food self-sufficiency, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing the Kingdom’s agricultural competitiveness.

In his opening remarks, Minister Al-Fadley emphasized the significance of agricultural innovation in achieving environmental sustainability, water preservation, and food security.

He noted that the record-breaking number of agreements signed reflects the confidence of local and international investors in the Kingdom’s agricultural sector, which continues to expand through strategic investments and advanced research.

Prince Saud bin Turki Al-Faisal, chairman of the board at Riyadh Exhibitions Co., highlighted the event’s growing influence, describing it as “a vital global platform for exchanging expertise, forging partnerships, and advancing sustainable agricultural practices.”

He added that global environmental challenges call for innovative solutions and collaboration between nations to safeguard natural resources and ensure a resilient future for food production.

Following the inauguration, Minister Al-Fadley toured various pavilions, exploring the latest advancements in livestock management, aquaculture, organic farming, food processing, agricultural machinery, and biotechnology.

He praised the exhibitors for their contribution to transforming agriculture into a high-tech, eco-conscious industry that supports both local farmers and international trade.

The exhibition’s first day saw the signing of 28 strategic agreements among public, semi-governmental, and private entities aimed at enhancing agricultural investments, supporting startups, and driving innovation in the sector.

Several international partnerships were also announced, focused on boosting Saudi Arabia’s agri-food value chains, expanding research in climate-resilient crops, and encouraging technology transfer from leading agricultural nations.

According to event organizers, the Saudi agricultural sector contributed SR119 billion to the national GDP in 2024, marking a steady rise in productivity and investment.

This figure is expected to climb to SR140 billion by 2030, reflecting the country’s success in diversifying its economy and reducing dependency on imports through sustainable domestic production.

Running parallel to the exhibition is the International Future of Agriculture Summit, which gathers experts, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from around the world to discuss the future of food systems, digital agriculture, and sustainable farming techniques.

Topics such as AI-driven irrigation, hydroponics, and green supply chains are central to this year’s discussions, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a regional hub for smart agriculture.

Industry leaders attending the exhibition praised the Kingdom’s proactive approach toward building a resilient and environmentally responsible food system.

By leveraging technology, research, and international partnerships, Saudi Arabia continues to advance toward its Vision 2030 targets, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and global collaboration.

The exhibition not only celebrates Saudi Arabia’s agricultural progress but also serves as a reminder of the Kingdom’s broader mission: ensuring food security for future generations while balancing economic growth and environmental stewardship.

With over 450 global participants and nearly $1 billion in agreements, the 42nd Saudi Agriculture Exhibition stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to creating a prosperous, sustainable, and food-secure future — both for itself and for the wider world.