After its registration in UNESCO, “Semsimiya” is a symbol of traditional arts in the Kingdom

His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Minister of Culture, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Heritage Authority and Chairman of the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, announced the success of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in registering “making and playing the sesame instrument” in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage at the United Nations Educational and Scientific Organization. and culture, UNESCO.
This was done through a nomination file led by the Arab Republic of Egypt, with the prominent participation of the Kingdom represented by the Heritage Authority, and in cooperation with the Saudi National Committee for Education, Culture and Science, and the Kingdom’s permanent delegation to UNESCO.

Playing semsimiya

The “Sesmiya instrument” is one of the most prominent elements of traditional arts that is used in social events and celebrations in coastal areas, such as: weddings and local festivals.

“Semsimiyya” is played during collective events, where people gather to sing traditional melodies to its tunes, which tell stories of the maritime heritage and social life of those areas, which reflects the spirit of joy and community cohesion there.
These musical performances represent an opportunity for social communication between community members, while preserving cultural ties between generations.
The “Semsimiya instrument” is linked to the artistic identity of coastal communities, as the skill of playing it is passed down from generation to generation, making it an instrument that combines heritage and innovation in Saudi art.
It is also used to tell traditional tales and historical stories that highlight the interconnection between musical heritage and daily life, which adds a cultural and social dimension that makes it a living part of collective memory.

Saudi cultural heritage

With this registration, the elements of Saudi intangible cultural heritage registered on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage at UNESCO are: the Saudi Ardha, the Majlis, Arabic coffee, falconry, the Asiri cat, the palm tree, Sadu weaving, Arabic calligraphy, camel shoes, and Saudi Khawlani coffee. Metal engraving and mashing.
The registration of the “Semsimiya Machine” with UNESCO highlights its status as a cultural element that reflects the artistic heritage diversity in the Kingdom, and confirms its role in enriching the global cultural scene.
This recording contributes to enhancing the world’s understanding of the role of musical heritage in strengthening social ties and protecting cultural heritage. Its registration reflects the Heritage Authority’s keenness to consolidate international cultural exchange as one of the goals of the National Strategy for Culture, under the umbrella of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.