RIYADH, September 9, 2024 – Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Culture, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, honored the winners of the Fourth National Cultural Awards during a prestigious ceremony in Riyadh on Monday evening. The event, held under the patronage of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, celebrated the achievements of leading figures and institutions in Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape.
Two new awards were introduced this year to recognize excellence in cultural media and handicrafts, reflecting the Kingdom’s expanding support for its creative industries.
The esteemed Cultural Pioneer Award was presented to Dr. Saad Al-Suwaian, in recognition of his significant scientific, literary, and cultural contributions over the years. His work has left a lasting impact on the Kingdom’s cultural scene, making him a distinguished figure in the field.
The Youth Cultural Award went to author and artist Diaa Youssef, who was celebrated for her innovative and creative work, representing the vibrant and dynamic spirit of Saudi Arabia’s younger generation.
In recognition of his family’s long-standing efforts in preserving the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, Badr Al-Buwardi received the Business Owners Award.
The International Cultural Excellence Award was awarded to Turquoise Mountain, an organization renowned for its global efforts in protecting heritage and supporting communities worldwide. Their work in preserving cultural identities and promoting craftsmanship has garnered international acclaim.
Among the institutional winners, MBC Group was honored with the Cultural Institutions Award (for-profit) for its significant contributions to media and entertainment in the region. The King Faisal Foundation received the award in the non-profit category for its longstanding dedication to promoting education and culture in the Kingdom.
Other outstanding figures in various cultural sectors were also recognized throughout the ceremony.
Prince Badr, addressing the attendees, emphasized the importance of these awards in nurturing and encouraging talent and creativity across the country. “The Ministry of Culture has been keen to adopt a strategy to develop cultural capabilities in an extended and integrated journey with partners in various sectors,” he said.
The National Cultural Awards, held annually, celebrate the exceptional contributions of Saudi intellectuals, artists, and institutions, shining a light on the country’s thriving cultural scene and its diverse creative achievements.
