Yemeni Minister Attends Culture Week in Riyadh as Part of Global Harmony Initiative

Riyadh — Yemen Culture Week in Riyadh opened with the participation of Yemeni Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism Muammar Al-Eryani, who highlighted the event’s role in strengthening cultural ties and deepening understanding between the two nations.

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.