Saudi Gazette report

MADINAH — Under the patronage of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, Prince Salman bin Sultan, Emir of Madinah Region and chairman of the Madinah Region Development Authority, on Monday inaugurated the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy.

The opening ceremony was attended by Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, along with senior officials and cultural figures.

During a tour of the center, Prince Salman bin Sultan reviewed its facilities and art exhibitions, and was briefed on its cultural content, achievements, and international awards.

He also viewed a selection of artistic works and collections reflecting the historical, cultural, and aesthetic value of Arabic calligraphy.

Addressing the ceremony, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan said the launch of the center from Madinah represents the establishment of a global platform for Arabic calligraphy as a deeply rooted cultural value.

He noted that the initiative reflects the strong and continuous support given to the cultural sector by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Prince Badr said the center sends a clear message to the world about the richness of Arabic calligraphy and its distinguished place in Arab and Islamic heritage, underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving its cultural identity and promoting it globally.

He added that the center embodies a clear vision to elevate Arabic calligraphy as a universal means of communication rooted in heritage, arts, architecture, and design.

It also reinforces Saudi Arabia’s historical role in safeguarding and developing this art form, while serving as a platform for creativity, innovation, and cultural dialogue.

Attendees also watched a visual presentation highlighting the center’s mission to nurture talent, refine the skills of calligraphers, and invest in creative practitioners.

The center aims to strengthen Saudi cultural identity and expand its international presence by serving calligraphers, emerging talents, visual artists, researchers in Islamic arts, educational and cultural institutions, as well as local and global audiences interested in arts and heritage.

The center’s strategy is built on five main pillars: knowledge and development, skills development, community engagement, business and opportunities, and innovation. These pillars are supported by specialized programs including a research and archiving unit, Arabic calligraphy learning programs, academic research grants, a permanent Arabic calligraphy museum, traveling exhibitions, the International Arabic Calligraphy Association, and a calligraphy-focused business incubator.

The center is also implementing a range of advanced initiatives, including artist residency programs, specialized workshops, curriculum and standards development for Arabic calligraphy, and international educational and training initiatives. These efforts aim to preserve cultural heritage and enhance the global presence of Arabic calligraphy as a living art that blends authenticity with creativity.