The Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy represents a qualitative leap in the preservation of Islamic and Arabic arts. The inauguration of this grand cultural edifice in Medina underscores the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's position as a custodian of Arabic calligraphy and a guardian of its rich heritage. The center, which has the honor of bearing the name of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is the culmination of tireless efforts aimed at strengthening Arab and Islamic identity.
Enhancing the global standing of Arabic calligraphy
The center's role extends beyond being merely a museum or gallery; it serves as a comprehensive global platform. Its aim is to showcase the beauty and diverse arts of Arabic calligraphy, presenting them to the world in a manner befitting their historical significance. This initiative complements the "Year of Arabic Calligraphy" launched by the Ministry of Culture, which successfully generated considerable public and institutional interest in this authentic art form.
Strategic dimensions and objectives of the center
The Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy seeks to achieve a number of strategic goals, most notably:
- Establishing an educational and developmental environment for calligraphers and artists from around the world.
- Archiving and digitizing Arabic calligraphy to protect it from extinction.
- Holding international and local exhibitions that highlight the development of this art throughout the ages.
- Supporting research and studies related to the history and development of Arabic calligraphy.
Arabic calligraphy on the UNESCO list
The opening of the center gains added significance in light of the diplomatic and cultural success achieved by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in leading the effort to register Arabic calligraphy on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This international achievement reflects the Kingdom’s cultural weight and its pioneering role in safeguarding shared human heritage, with the center now serving as the executive body that translates this international recognition into concrete programs and projects.
The Center and the Kingdom's Vision 2030
The establishment of this center aligns perfectly with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 , which places great importance on culture as a fundamental element of quality of life and a vital contributor to the national economy. By promoting cultural tourism and attracting those interested in Islamic arts to Medina, the center contributes to diversifying income sources and creating promising opportunities for creative individuals, thus positioning the Kingdom as a leading global destination for arts, culture, and heritage.
