The General Directorate of Civil Defense said the warning was based on projections from the National Center for Meteorology, which expects moderate to heavy rainfall across regions including Makkah, Riyadh, Madinah, Qassim, Hail, Tabuk, the Eastern Province, Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Al-Baha, Asir, Jazan and Najran.

Authorities said the unstable weather could trigger flash flooding, hailstorms and strong downdrafts capable of generating dust storms that may significantly reduce visibility.In response, Hafar Al-Batin University suspended in-person classes on Monday, shifting to remote learning in its main campus and affiliated colleges in Khafji and Al-Nairyah following meteorological advisories.

The civil defense agency advised residents to remain in safe locations, avoid flood-prone areas and refrain from entering valleys or swimming in affected zones, while monitoring official updates.The warnings follow a series of escalating alerts issued over the weekend, including a red alert for the Madinah region, where forecasters predicted intense rainfall, hail and near-zero visibility conditions.

Weather authorities said the system developed over northern and western regions on Saturday before expanding into central and eastern areas on Sunday, bringing widespread rain and dust-laden winds.

Officials said they continue to monitor the situation closely as adverse weather conditions persist, urging the public to prioritize safety precautions.

Zelenskiy said the framework deal, signed ahead of talks with Mohammed bin Salman, establishes a basis for future contracts, joint technological development and investment between the two countries.

“We are ready to share our expertise and systems with Saudi Arabia and to work together to strengthen the protection of lives,” Zelenskiy said on Telegram, adding that Saudi capabilities were also of interest to Ukraine.

The visit comes as Kyiv reassesses its external support network in the fifth year of its war with Russia. A report by the Washington Post said the United States is weighing redirecting weapons supplies intended for Ukraine to the Middle East, where tensions linked to a conflict with Iran are straining American stockpiles.

Zelenskiy’s outreach to Gulf partners signals an effort to diversify defence cooperation and secure alternative funding and technology flows as geopolitical priorities shift.

Earlier this month, Ukraine sent more than 220 military and security experts to several Middle Eastern countries to advise on countering drone attacks targeting critical infrastructure.

According to video released by Zelenskiy’s office, the delegation included air defence specialists and officials from Ukraine’s SBU security service.

The group conducted workshops for Saudi officials, reported to the Saudi General Staff and is preparing to share operational experience in air defence.

Zelenskiy said Ukraine expects financial compensation and access to technology in exchange for providing such assistance.Drones have become a central feature of the battlefield in Ukraine’s war with Russia, prompting Kyiv to accelerate domestic production and innovation to offset Moscow’s manpower advantage.

Zelenskiy told Reuters this week that, with sufficient financing, Ukraine could produce up to 2,000 drone interceptors per day, underscoring the scale of its defence manufacturing ambitions.

The agreement with Saudi Arabia reflects a convergence of interests as Middle Eastern states seek to strengthen air defence capabilities against drone threats, while Ukraine looks to leverage its battlefield experience for strategic and economic gains.

The warning, delivered by Iranian military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaqari and echoed by senior officials, marked a sharp escalation in rhetoric as the conflict entered its fourth week, raising concerns over potential disruption to critical infrastructure in Gulf countries heavily dependent on desalination for drinking water.

Trump’s ultimatum, issued late Saturday, set a deadline of approximately 7:45 p.m. EDT on Monday for Iran to reopen the strategic waterway, through which roughly a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies typically pass. He said the United States would strike Iranian power plants if Tehran failed to comply.

Iranian officials said any attack on its energy facilities would trigger a broad response targeting U.S.-aligned assets across the region. Zolfaqari stated that energy infrastructure, information technology systems and desalination plants linked to the United States and its regional allies would be considered legitimate targets.

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said such strikes could lead to “irreversible destruction” of critical infrastructure in the Middle East. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until damaged Iranian facilities were restored.

Electricity infrastructure is central to Gulf economies, where high per capita consumption supports urban cooling and desalination systems. Bahrain and Qatar rely entirely on desalinated water, while the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia depend on it for the majority of their supply, making such facilities strategically sensitive.

Israeli forces said they began a wide-scale wave of strikes targeting Iranian infrastructure in Tehran early Monday. Iranian media reported casualties, including the death of a child in Khorramabad, and damage to residential areas in Urmia.

Air raid sirens sounded across northern and central Israel, including Tel Aviv and parts of the occupied West Bank, indicating incoming Iranian missile fire. Israeli medical authorities reported dozens injured in earlier strikes on southern towns near key military installations.

Saudi Arabia said it intercepted one of two ballistic missiles launched toward Riyadh, with the second landing in an uninhabited area.The conflict has also extended to Lebanon, where Israel said it conducted raids on Hezbollah sites in the south.

Hezbollah claimed responsibility for rocket attacks on northern Israel, while Israeli authorities reported at least one fatality near the border.

The threat of attacks on infrastructure and uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz have unsettled global markets. Oil prices opened volatile in Asian trading, while European gas prices surged sharply in the past week.Iranian actions have effectively restricted passage through the strait, contributing to what analysts describe as the most severe oil supply disruption since the 1970s.

However, Tehran has said the waterway remains open to vessels not linked to its adversaries, with some ships reportedly negotiating passage under coordinated arrangements.Market analysts said the U.S. ultimatum has heightened uncertainty, with expectations of downward pressure on equities and continued volatility in energy markets.

The war, launched on February 28 by the United States and Israel, has killed more than 2,000 people and triggered broader regional instability. Israeli officials said they expect weeks more fighting against Iran and Hezbollah, indicating no immediate de-escalation.

U.S. military deployments, including Marines and amphibious assets, continue to move into the region, even as earlier signals suggested Washington might consider scaling down operations.

Iran has maintained its capacity to retaliate despite sustained bombardment, underscoring the risk of further escalation involving civilian infrastructure and critical global energy routes.

In a statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency, the ministry said the targeting of Saudi sovereignty, civilian infrastructure, diplomatic missions and economic interests constituted a breach of international norms. It added that the actions violated the Beijing Agreement and United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026), as well as principles governing state sovereignty and good neighborly relations.

Saudi authorities notified the Iranian embassy that its military attaché, assistant military attaché and three additional staff members had been declared persona non grata and must leave the Kingdom within 24 hours, according to the statement.

The ministry reiterated a previous warning issued on March 9 that continued attacks would represent further escalation and have a “profound impact” on bilateral relations. It also restated the Kingdom’s “categorical condemnation” of Iranian actions against Saudi Arabia, Gulf Cooperation Council states and other Arab and Islamic countries.

Saudi Arabia said it would take all necessary measures to safeguard its security and sovereignty, invoking its right to self-defense under Article 51 of the U.N. Charter. The statement framed the expulsions as part of a broader response to what it described as repeated violations affecting civilian and strategic targets.

The ministry did not provide additional operational details on the alleged attacks but linked them to a pattern of actions undermining regional stability and diplomatic commitments.

The move comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf, with Saudi Arabia warning that continued escalation could have serious consequences for regional relations. The reference to the Beijing Agreement underscores the strain on recent diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilizing ties between the two countries.

Saudi Arabia’s statement did not indicate any immediate diplomatic follow-up beyond the expulsions but emphasized that further actions would depend on developments on the ground.

The week-long event highlighted how translation serves as a cultural bridge that connects communities, strengthens diplomacy, and supports creative industries.

Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the event positioned translation as a central element in cultural development.

Through workshops, discussions, and networking sessions, participants explored how language exchange can promote mutual understanding and global collaboration.

Translation was described not merely as a transfer of words, but as a movement of ideas, emotions, and identities across borders.
Speakers emphasized that every translation carries a story, fostering empathy between people and preserving diverse cultural heritages.

Hailah Alkhalaf, the general manager of translation, spoke about the deeper significance of language. She noted that translation is an act of connection — one that conveys the richness of entire civilizations and human experiences.

The event included panel discussions on technology, training, and ethics in translation. Experts explored how artificial intelligence tools can enhance efficiency while maintaining the human essence of cultural interpretation.

Young participants shared enthusiasm for translation as both a career and a calling. Many students expressed interest in pursuing translation as a path to diplomacy, education, and cultural outreach.

Workshops offered practical training, covering areas like crisis translation, literary adaptation, and digital localization. These sessions provided attendees with real-world techniques and insights from experienced translators.

One of the key topics was language sustainability, focusing on how translation can help revive endangered languages. Speakers called for programs to preserve linguistic diversity and ensure that all communities have a voice in global dialogue.

Panels also discussed equal access to translation education. Experts recommended mentorship programs and grants to empower emerging translators and expand training opportunities.

The forum highlighted collaboration between academia, cultural institutions, and creative industries. Projects that combine literature, music, and visual arts were showcased to demonstrate how language can enrich all forms of expression.

Attendees enjoyed a gala dinner that celebrated cultural unity through music and cuisine. This closing event symbolized how translation not only bridges words but also connects hearts and traditions.

Technology’s role in translation was another major focus. Panelists emphasized a balanced approach that pairs digital tools with the intuition and sensitivity of human translators.

Discussions also addressed professional ethics, cultural respect, and the importance of accurate representation. Translators were reminded that their role carries both creative and moral responsibility in shaping intercultural communication.

The event created opportunities for networking, mentorship, and professional collaboration. Students and experts discussed partnerships that could advance the translation ecosystem in the years ahead.

Organizers underlined the need for continued investment in research, education, and institutional infrastructure. Translation was framed as a foundation for cultural diplomacy, economic growth, and shared global prosperity.

By the end of the week, participants expressed optimism and commitment to ongoing cooperation. They agreed that translation has the power to transform understanding and foster peaceful international dialogue.

The forum concluded on a hopeful note, celebrating translation as both an art and an instrument of progress. It reaffirmed that through language, humanity can continue to build bridges, nurture empathy, and imagine a connected future together.

In a world driven by rapid change, Saudi Arabia’s creative community is demonstrating that heritage is not a limitation but an inspiration.
Across industries — from jewelry to architecture and beauty — innovation is being redefined as an evolution of tradition rather than a departure from it.

At the heart of this movement are women innovators who are weaving cultural heritage into modern design. Their message is clear: the future of creativity lies in honoring the past while embracing the possibilities of tomorrow.

Princess Nourah Al-Faisal, founder of Nuun Jewels, captured this spirit at the Creative Women Forum. She emphasized that cultural roots give creativity its identity, while innovation gives it direction and strength.

Institutions like the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, known as Wrth, are leading this transformation. Dedicated to merging preservation with progress, Wrth ensures that traditional arts form the foundation for modern education.

Suzan Alyahya, CEO of Wrth, highlighted the dynamic nature of Saudi heritage. “We see traditional arts as a moving, dynamic force, not a static remnant of the past,” she said, describing how students are encouraged to link identity with innovation.

Founded in 2021, Wrth’s programs empower citizens in crafts and design, supporting sustainable cultural growth. Courses range from pottery and Sadu weaving to master’s degrees in product development and digital heritage.

Technology, often seen as a rival to human creativity, is being reimagined as a partner in artistic expression. In Wrth’s philosophy, innovation through digital tools is not about replacing heritage but enhancing it.

Amal Abduljabbar, general manager of education and research, believes technology extends rather than threatens cultural authenticity. “Technology is not a threat to authenticity in any way. It’s an extension of our human story,” she explained.

She described how AI and virtual reality can protect and promote heritage. From monitoring historical sites to creating immersive storytelling experiences, digital tools amplify the emotional power of culture.

Abduljabbar added that identity itself evolves through values that must remain embedded in education and research. By nurturing these values, Saudi creatives are ensuring their innovations stay true to their roots while embracing modern perspectives.

Innovation also extends beyond education and technology into lifestyle and design sectors. The beauty industry, for instance, is showcasing how local inspiration can lead to global relevance.

Asteri Beauty, founded by Sara Alrashed, is pioneering products tailored to the region’s climate and culture. Her brand challenges global norms by crafting makeup suited for Arab women’s unique features and the desert environment.

“In the beauty industry, there is nothing that truly caters to Arab women, not just for their features, but also for the weather,” Alrashed said. Her approach merges scientific innovation with cultural storytelling, giving beauty a sense of place and identity.

These efforts show how Saudi entrepreneurs are turning tradition into a platform for sustainable creativity. Whether through design, craftsmanship, or technology, they are proving that cultural heritage remains the ultimate muse.

The broader consensus emerging from these creative voices is deeply optimistic. Authenticity is no longer viewed as an anchor holding innovation back but as a compass guiding it forward.

Saudi Arabia’s cultural evolution is reshaping global conversations about creativity and identity. By bridging the gap between past and future, the nation is crafting a model of progress that values memory as much as imagination.

The movement demonstrates that when innovation and heritage walk hand in hand, creativity becomes limitless. It is a future where every design, product, and idea carries the essence of culture — alive, dynamic, and endlessly inspiring.

Saudi Arabia, represented by the National Center for e-Learning, hosted the 24th meeting of the Committee of e-Learning Officials in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries to strengthen cooperation and innovation in digital education.

The meeting brought together e-learning leaders, deans, and higher education officials from across the GCC. It focused on building a shared vision for using AI in education, developing digital learning ecosystems, and ensuring that Gulf universities remain at the forefront of technological progress.

The discussions highlighted the region’s growing commitment to adopting AI-powered tools that enhance teaching quality, support educators, and personalize learning experiences for students.

The move also reflects the GCC’s broader strategy to create smart education systems aligned with the region’s digital transformation goals.

Experts at the meeting explored the potential of Arabic-language AI models tailored for education. Developing a unified Gulf AI system in Arabic is seen as a cornerstone for advancing e-learning platforms and ensuring that cultural and linguistic values are deeply embedded in future technologies.

The meeting also addressed strategic trends in artificial intelligence and its governance within the education sector. Attendees discussed how AI can be responsibly integrated into classrooms to support creativity, innovation, and ethical digital practices among learners.

Representatives from Saudi and other Gulf universities shared successful case studies in using AI for virtual classrooms, data-driven assessments, and intelligent tutoring systems.

These examples demonstrated how technology is helping to bridge learning gaps and expand access to quality education across the region.

One of the meeting’s key outcomes was the proposal to develop a unified Gulf language model to serve as a foundation for future AI and e-learning systems.

This model will not only strengthen Arabic content in digital platforms but also promote research and innovation in AI applications for education.

Participants agreed on the importance of ongoing collaboration between GCC countries to establish a shared educational AI strategy.

This includes creating frameworks that guide responsible technology use, encourage academic innovation, and align with each country’s national digital agenda.

The committee approved recommendations from Saudi Arabia’s National Center for e-Learning to adopt AI as a reference model across Gulf educational institutions.

This step ensures that all GCC countries benefit from standardized approaches, shared best practices, and cooperative development in digital education.

By working together, Gulf nations aim to build a strong foundation for an AI-driven educational ecosystem that nurtures creativity, promotes critical thinking, and prepares students for the digital economy.

The initiative also supports the Vision 2030 goals of countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, emphasizing knowledge-based economies and smart governance.

The collaboration symbolizes a new era of unity and innovation in the Gulf, where education and technology intersect to empower future generations.

With a shared focus on Arabic AI, digital transformation, and responsible innovation, the GCC is setting a global example in how regional cooperation can shape the future of learning.

This year’s event marked the first time that the Kingdom hosted the prestigious global workshop, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s growing leadership role in promoting peace, justice, and humanitarian values on the international stage.

The workshop was organized by the Ministry of Defense’s National Defense University in partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Fayyad Al-Ruwaili and ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, along with 125 senior military officers representing 90 different countries.

The large international turnout underscored the significance of the Kingdom’s role as a global convener in matters related to military ethics, humanitarian conduct, and international law.

In his address, Lt. Gen. Al-Ruwaili emphasized that Saudi Arabia remains deeply dedicated to respecting, promoting, and strengthening the principles of international humanitarian law across all military operations.

He noted that the Kingdom’s leadership attaches great importance to ensuring that military conduct aligns with the highest ethical and humanitarian standards.

He also pointed out that Saudi Arabia has enacted comprehensive legislation that criminalizes violations of the laws of war and promotes accountability through a robust legal and institutional framework, including the establishment of specialized courts to handle such matters.

Al-Ruwaili highlighted that the Kingdom was among the first nations to accede to the four Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, demonstrating its long-standing commitment to international humanitarian principles.

He added that these commitments are rooted in the tolerant and compassionate teachings of Islamic Shariah, which emphasize mercy, justice, and humane treatment even during times of conflict.

The Chief of the General Staff also explained that the Ministry of Defense has taken significant steps to integrate the principles of humanitarian law into military education and training programs.

These efforts ensure that all members of the armed forces understand and apply international legal standards in their operations.

He mentioned that the ministry offers a wide range of specialized training programs, many of which are conducted in close cooperation with the ICRC.

Such initiatives aim to position Saudi Arabia as a global example in implementing and training personnel in the practical application of international humanitarian law.

Al-Ruwaili further stressed that the Kingdom’s humanitarian commitment extends far beyond the military sphere.

He pointed to the ongoing efforts of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), which provides assistance to people affected by conflicts and natural disasters around the world.

Through these initiatives, Saudi Arabia continues to demonstrate compassion and solidarity with communities in need, reinforcing its position as a leading contributor to global humanitarian causes.

In her remarks, ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger expressed appreciation to the Kingdom for hosting the event and for its continued partnership with the ICRC.

She stated that the workshop comes at a crucial time when the world is witnessing a rise in both the number and intensity of conflicts, which in turn puts immense pressure on the systems and laws designed to protect civilians.

Egger emphasized that all nations share a responsibility to respect and ensure respect for international humanitarian law, noting that its implementation is vital to preserving human dignity during times of war.

The workshop serves as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of expertise among military leaders and humanitarian law specialists from around the world.

By hosting this important event, Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its role as a responsible global partner committed to promoting peace, stability, and the rule of law.

The Kingdom’s efforts to embed humanitarian values within its defense and foreign policy reflect its vision for a more just and humane international order — one that safeguards human life, dignity, and mutual respect across all nations.

The season, themed “Ezek we Malfak” (Your Glory and Refuge), launched on Thursday along the beautiful banks of Wadi Safar in western Diriyah, marking another significant celebration of heritage, creativity, and unity.

The theme reflects Diriyah’s enduring legacy as the birthplace of the first Saudi state and a symbol of the Kingdom’s strength, culture, and history.

Organized by the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), the opening ceremony was attended by Prince Fahd bin Saad bin Abdullah bin Turki, Governor of Diriyah, along with several cultural and media figures from Saudi Arabia and abroad.

The evening was brought to life with artistic performances inspired by the spirit of “Al-Awja,” a term deeply linked to Diriyah’s identity and the pride of the Saudi people.

Through captivating visual displays, advanced lighting, and drone shows, the story of Wadi Hanifa was beautifully told in a performance titled “I Am Al-Awja,” which left the audience inspired and emotional.

Adding to the evening’s charm, the winners of the “Rawi Al-Diriyah” (Narrator of Diriyah) program, Tamim Al-Harthi and Bader Al-Harbi, delivered interactive performances that reflected the profound connection between Saudis and their national heritage.

Their presentations, blending storytelling, music, and tradition, symbolized the deep emotional bond that unites the people of Saudi Arabia with Diriyah — the land where their nation’s story began.

The celebration also featured musical and theatrical performances showcasing Saudi folk traditions, including the Ardah and Samri dances.

These performances highlighted the diversity of Najdi culture and celebrated the artistic spirit of young Saudis, both men and women, who are keeping their heritage alive through creativity and performance.

Ahlam Al-Thunayan, director of Diriyah Season, explained that this year’s theme aims to celebrate Diriyah’s history, values, and culture in innovative ways that reflect the pride Saudis take in their roots.

She emphasized that the symbolism of Al-Awja represents the Kingdom’s continuity — linking the past with the present while inspiring future generations to preserve their cultural identity.

The season features more than 10 diverse programs over 120 days, ranging from cultural and artistic events to historical exhibitions.

Highlights include the “Hal Al-Qusour” program in the Al-Turaif district, where several historical palaces will be opened to the public for the first time, and the “Teen” program, which showcases traditional Najdi architecture.

Other attractions include the “Diriyah Novel Festival” in Al-Bujairi and “Diriyah Nights,” which bring together Saudi culinary art and international dining experiences in a lively and elegant setting.

The “Season Market” in Al-Tawali recreates the charm of old Arabian souqs, while Al-Dhuwairah district will host interactive family activities and craft workshops. Visitors can also enjoy luxury hospitality experiences with scenic views over Wadi Safar, merging modern leisure with historical elegance.

According to the DGDA, all programs are guided by principles of cultural sustainability, empowering local talents and artisans, and fostering partnerships that strengthen cultural tourism in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

The goal is to position Diriyah as a living museum — a place where the past and present merge seamlessly to inspire the future.

Nasser Al-Gharbi, chairman of the Economic Families Association, praised the Diriyah Season as a shining example of how culture and community development can work together.

He noted that the season reflects Vision 2030’s objectives by empowering local communities and creating sustainable economic opportunities through cultural engagement.

Dr. Abdulmohsen Al-Sheikh of the Saudi Economic Association highlighted that initiatives like the Diriyah Season help strengthen local economies, create jobs, and encourage regional investment — all key goals under Vision 2030.

The Diriyah Season ultimately stands as a proud tribute to Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage, creativity, and unity. By blending tradition with innovation, the festival transforms Diriyah into a vibrant cultural hub that connects generations.

It serves as a reminder that the Kingdom’s strength lies not only in its progress but also in its deep respect for its history and identity — values that continue to guide its journey toward a bright and sustainable future.

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.