Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The Ministry of Culture celebrated the Kingdom’s creative talents on Sunday during the fifth edition of the National Cultural Awards, where legendary singer Mohammed Abdu was honored as Cultural Personality of the Year in recognition of his decades-long artistic journey.

The ceremony, held at the King Fahd Cultural Center in Riyadh, highlighted the achievements of individuals and institutions across various cultural sectors, showcasing the contributions of national talents both locally and globally.

Culture Minister Prince Badr bin Farhan praised Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his continuous support of culture and creatives, saying the awards reflect the values of appreciation and gratitude embedded in Saudi culture and align with the ministry’s mission to empower and encourage innovators.

Abdu, known as the “Artist of the Arabs,” received the honor for carrying Saudi song to broader horizons and for shaping a unique artistic identity that continues to resonate across generations.

Among institutions, Manga Productions won the award in the for-profit category, while Al-Medad for Heritage, Culture, and Arts won in the non-profit category.

Poet and writer Saad Al-Humaidin was recognized for his contributions to cultural media, while businessman Abdul Moneim Al-Rashed received the award for cultural patronage.

The international cultural excellence award went to the Japanese foundation Awamaki, and the Youth Culture award was presented to poet Yahya Rayani.

Other category winners included Dr. Abdullah Al-Buraidi (literature), Dar Tashkeel (publishing), Dr. Abdullah Al-Wulai’i (translation), Princess Noura Al-Faisal (fashion), Dr. Fahd Al-Hussein (handicrafts), Abdullah Al-Suhaibani (national heritage), Ahmed Zaki Kamel (culinary arts), artist Maha Mallouh (visual arts), Saleh Abdulwahid (theater and performing arts), Dr. Abdulrab Idris (music), and the production company Makzan Saba (film). The award for architecture and design was withheld.

The evening also paid tribute to the late Saudi composer Nasser Al-Saleh with a special performance of his most celebrated works, presented by a Saudi choral ensemble and orchestra led by maestro Walid Fayed.