The recognition, presented at a reception hosted at the Italian ambassador’s residence in Riyadh, celebrates her efforts to strengthen cultural and gastronomic ties between Saudi Arabia and Italy.

Badr described the honor as a deeply personal and professional milestone.

She noted that receiving such recognition from Italy reflects the growing collaboration between the two nations in culture, cuisine and creative exchange.

Italy’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Carlo Baldocci praised Badr’s leadership in building strong connections rooted in food, shared heritage and cultural appreciation.

He emphasized that the award is reserved for foreign nationals who significantly contribute to strengthening bilateral cooperation, calling Badr’s work truly deserving.

Badr attended the ceremony with her family and close colleagues, marking the occasion as a celebration of collective achievement.

She highlighted how food remains one of the most universal forms of communication, helping people understand each other long before any formal dialogue begins.

She noted that both Saudi Arabia and Italy share a deep tradition of hospitality, warmth and generosity.

According to her, these values make culinary collaboration between the two nations feel natural and meaningful.

Badr reflected on the long journey of food across history, describing how spices, ingredients and recipes traveled across trade routes and evolved with each culture they touched.

She emphasized that cuisine has no borders and that its ability to connect diverse communities remains unmatched.

The Culinary Arts Commission has spent two years documenting traditional Saudi dishes to preserve and share the country’s rich food identity.

This research, she explained, is laying the groundwork for international showcases and cultural partnerships.

One of the major global events ahead is a food and cultural festival in Milan, where the commission will present Saudi cuisine to a wide international audience.

The exhibition will also highlight Saudi handicrafts, offering visitors a full cultural experience.

Badr expressed excitement about presenting regional dishes, culinary stories and artisanal crafts to global visitors in Italy.

She added that such platforms help broaden international understanding of Saudi Arabia’s heritage and modern creativity.

She also drew attention to Saudi Feast, one of the kingdom’s largest culinary festivals organized by the commission.

The festival opened last week and continues until Saturday, welcoming visitors from across the country.

Saudi Feast features more than 100 restaurants offering over 300 diverse dishes representing all 13 regions of the kingdom.

The event also includes artisanal stalls, cultural performances and immersive culinary activities.

One of the highlights is the “honey experience,” which showcases the kingdom’s longstanding beekeeping traditions and regional honey varieties.

Visitors can taste, learn and explore the craftsmanship behind this important cultural product.

Through local festivals and international showcases, the Culinary Arts Commission continues to promote Saudi culinary identity worldwide.

Badr’s recognition by Italy stands as a symbol of the growing global appreciation for Saudi culture and its evolving creative industries.

Her journey reflects a broader national effort to share Saudi artistry with global communities.

It also underscores the power of food as a bridge that fosters friendship, understanding and cultural respect.

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 meeting reflected a shared vision to strengthen cooperation between local authorities and regional tourism bodies in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Prince Jalawi expressed his deep appreciation for the continuous support provided by King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the Kingdom’s tourism sector.

He highlighted how their guidance and initiatives have played a crucial role in driving growth and innovation across various regions, including Najran.

The governor emphasized Najran’s diverse tourism potential, describing it as a region filled with ancient landmarks, scenic desert landscapes, and rich cultural traditions.

He said that by developing these resources effectively, Najran can become one of Saudi Arabia’s most attractive destinations for both local and international travelers.

Prince Jalawi also called for the creation of a comprehensive tourism development plan that unites government agencies, private investors, nonprofit organizations, and the local community.

This partnership-driven approach aims to increase visitor engagement, create new job opportunities, and enhance sustainable tourism practices throughout the region.

During the meeting, the Arab Tourism Organization presented its efforts to support regional tourism initiatives and promote collaboration across the Arab world.

These initiatives include training programs, investment opportunities, and cultural projects that celebrate the unique identity of each destination.

Bandar Al-Fuhaid expressed his gratitude to the governor for his leadership and commitment to strengthening the tourism industry in Najran.

He praised the region’s abundance of natural attractions, ancient archaeological sites, and authentic hospitality, which make it a key part of Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism map.

Al-Fuhaid also stressed the importance of highlighting Najran’s cultural heritage through festivals, exhibitions, and guided experiences that showcase its history and traditions.

He affirmed that the Arab Tourism Organization is ready to support Najran through knowledge sharing, regional partnerships, and strategic tourism promotion efforts.

The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their dedication to advancing sustainable tourism, protecting cultural sites, and creating meaningful experiences for visitors.

They agreed that continued cooperation between national and regional tourism entities would help position Najran as a model for tourism-driven development in Saudi Arabia and across the Arab world.

Through initiatives like these, Najran continues to demonstrate its role as a key contributor to the Kingdom’s broader tourism and economic vision.

With strong leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement, the city is steadily emerging as one of the shining gems of Saudi Arabia’s tourism future.

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.

Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural and scientific legacy is set to transcend Earth’s boundaries, with elements of its ancient and modern heritage included in Sanctuary on the Moon, a historic time capsule project supported by NASA and UNESCO.

The initiative aims to safeguard humanity’s collective knowledge, art, and science by storing them on the moon — a symbolic act of unity and endurance that celebrates the achievements of civilization.

French engineer Benoit Faiveley, the visionary leading the project, is visiting Saudi Arabia to collaborate with prominent cultural and scientific institutions in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.

His mission: to select and curate the facets of Saudi heritage that best reflect the Kingdom’s timeless traditions and its remarkable transformation under Vision 2030.

“With the extraordinary cultural dynamism taking place under Saudi Vision 2030, now is the perfect time to collaborate with Saudi museums and art institutions,” said Faiveley. “Saudi Arabia’s voice will represent not only its people but also the broader Arab civilization — past, present, and future.”

The Sanctuary on the Moon project brings together a distinguished team of international experts, including astrophysicists, paleontologists, historians, engineers, and artists.

Their shared goal is to design and deliver a “cosmic message” — a permanent record of human civilization preserved beyond the reach of time.

The time capsule will consist of 24 sapphire discs engraved with images, data, and diagrams that encapsulate humanity’s scientific and cultural achievements. From art and music to mathematics and literature, each disc will tell part of humanity’s story.

Among them, Saudi Arabia’s contribution will shine as the cultural beacon of the Arab world, symbolizing a bridge between ancient wisdom and futuristic innovation.

Saudi heritage sites such as the rock art of Hima, the ancient city of Diriyah, and the AlUla archaeological wonders are among those being considered for inclusion.

These landmarks, along with Saudi Arabia’s growing number of UNESCO World Heritage sites — now numbering eight — reflect the Kingdom’s deep historical roots and commitment to preservation.

Faiveley described the lunar archive as “a cosmic hello to our descendants, or perhaps to other intelligent life forms.” The time capsule’s design ensures longevity, with sapphire chosen for its durability and resistance to cosmic radiation.

Each disc will store vast amounts of information in image and data form, ensuring that even millennia from now, future generations — or perhaps future civilizations — can uncover humanity’s story.

Scheduled to travel aboard NASA’s CT-4 mission, the time capsule will land on the moon’s southern polar region — an area seen as ideal for future inhabited lunar bases. This region, rich in scientific potential and water-ice reserves, symbolizes hope for humanity’s next frontier of exploration.

By incorporating Saudi culture into the lunar archive, the Sanctuary project acknowledges the Kingdom’s vital role in shaping global civilization and innovation.

It also highlights Saudi Arabia’s ongoing transformation under Vision 2030 — a national plan that balances progress with preservation, tradition with technology, and heritage with innovation.

“The initiative ensures that Saudi Arabia’s cultural legacy — from its prehistoric art to its modern vision — will remain accessible for millennia,” the project’s statement noted. “It’s not just a record of human knowledge; it’s a celebration of diversity, creativity, and shared destiny.”

For Saudi Arabia, this participation marks another milestone in its journey toward global cultural leadership. From hosting world-class museums and restoring historic sites to empowering its creative industries, the Kingdom continues to position itself as a hub of heritage, innovation, and inspiration.

As humanity looks beyond Earth, Saudi Arabia’s inclusion in the Sanctuary on the Moon ensures that when the story of humankind is told among the stars, the Kingdom’s voice — echoing its ancient past and visionary future — will forever resonate across time and space.

Recently included in the national Saudi Architecture Characters Map, Al-Baha’s architecture highlights the Kingdom’s rich heritage while promoting sustainable and energy-efficient design

Abdullah bin Abdulqader Haridi, associate professor of architecture and building technology at Al-Baha University, explained that the region’s style is influenced by its natural mountainous terrain and features three main categories: traditional, transitional, and contemporary.

Key elements include forts, external staircases, patterned doors and windows, and the unique Zafir column style, all reflecting centuries of cultural and architectural wisdom.

Traditional buildings in Al-Baha are designed with environmental conditions in mind, considering terrain, climate, and social customs that encourage community gathering in designated spaces.

“Adhering to traditional styles allows for real estate development that complements local identity, inspiring investors to adopt these standards,” Haridi noted.

The Saudi Architecture Characters Map, introduced by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman earlier this year, highlights 19 unique regional architectural styles.

Its purpose is to modernize the urban landscape while preserving the character, tradition, and cultural identity of Saudi architecture.

Mohammed bin Salem Al-Ghamdi, a master builder with decades of experience constructing stone houses in Al-Baha, emphasized that local materials such as granite, basalt, juniper wood, and clay are harmoniously used in home construction.

This natural approach makes the region’s architecture energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable.

In recent years, there has been a revival of interest in Al-Baha’s heritage houses. Many residents have restored old homes, while others have incorporated traditional elements into new constructions, blending history with modern comfort.

This resurgence not only preserves cultural identity but also enhances the region’s appeal as a destination for tourists seeking authentic experiences and architectural beauty.

Al-Baha’s architecture stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to honoring its cultural roots while embracing modern innovation.

By combining heritage, sustainability, and aesthetic excellence, the region continues to inspire architects, investors, and visitors alike, highlighting the Kingdom’s rich and diverse architectural landscape.

Anchored in Al-Ahsa, home to the world’s largest date palm oasis and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the initiative blends heritage with innovation, positioning Saudi palm weaving as a platform for contemporary art, design, and international collaboration.

Palm weaving, locally known as khoos, has been a vital part of Saudi life for generations, producing functional objects such as baskets and mats. The Khoos Initiative reimagines this craft for the 21st century, transforming it from a traditional practice into a source of artistic and design inspiration. Artisans collaborate with designers, architects, and creatives from around the world to explore new forms while retaining the craft’s cultural roots.

Ala’a Al-Qahtani, creative programs specialist at Ithra, explained that the program moves palm weaving beyond practical objects into art, fashion, and architecture. “The goal is not only to preserve heritage but to evolve it into a space where tradition meets innovation,” Al-Qahtani said.

The initiative emphasizes cross-generational collaboration, with women artisans providing deep knowledge of traditional techniques and young creatives bringing fresh perspectives, ensuring the craft remains vibrant and relevant.

Al-Ahsa’s cultural and historical significance anchors the program. As the heart of Saudi palm weaving, it provides a strong local foundation while offering a gateway to global recognition.

The Khoos Initiative presents Saudi heritage to the world, highlighting the shared legacy of palm crafts across regions and cultures. Al-Qahtani noted that the initiative acts as a “cultural bridge, strengthening both local identity and global understanding.”

Maintaining authenticity while embracing innovation was a key challenge. The initiative addresses this by pairing traditional artisans with contemporary designers in signature commissions and residency programs. This collaboration safeguards centuries of knowledge while introducing new creative expressions suitable for fashion, design, and architecture.

The result is a dynamic exchange of skills and ideas that celebrates both history and modernity.

The Khoos Initiative also aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, supporting the growth of the creative economy and cultural diplomacy. By transforming traditional craft into a driver for innovation, education, and economic opportunity, the program strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position on the international cultural stage.

Through exhibitions like “The Palm Tree Exhibition” at Ithra, as well as presentations at UNESCO’s MONDIACULT 2025 in Barcelona and the ICOM General Conference in Dubai, the initiative showcases Saudi craftsmanship to a global audience.

Women’s involvement remains central to the initiative, reflecting their historical role in preserving palm weaving. At the same time, younger generations contribute energy and creativity, pushing the boundaries of traditional craft into modern contexts. This inclusive approach ensures that khoos is not just a preserved memory but a living, evolving art form with international relevance.

By linking heritage to contemporary design, education, and global collaboration, the Khoos Initiative positions Saudi palm weaving as both a cultural treasure and a source of innovation. Through this initiative, a craft once confined to local oases now thrives as a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s creativity, bridging tradition and modernity for the world to experience.