During 2024 .. Achievements that preserve the cultural and architectural heritage in the historic Jeddah

As an extension of what was completed since the launch of the “Historical Revival of Jeddah” project in 2021, within the vision of His Royal Highness Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may God protect him -the historical region witnessed a remarkable development during the year 2024, and the Ministry of Culture announced a set of achievements that reflect its commitment to preserving the cultural and architectural heritage of the region.
In the field of preserving urban heritage, the Ministry completed the restoration of 27 historical buildings, and the rehabilitation of 10 additional buildings, as well as support and rescue of 39 other buildings, in a move that enhances the unique architectural value of the region.
The year also witnessed the opening of the first 3 heritage hotels that provide a residence experience that mixes luxury and the original nature, as part of a plan to restore and rehabilitate 34 heritage buildings and convert them into hotels.

Discoveries of the region’s history

On the level of archaeological excavation, field studies resulted in important discoveries that restore the region’s history for thousands of years. In the Othman Bin Affan Mosque, wooden pieces of guny wood were found on the saraette of the mihrab, dating back to the first century AH (seventh AD).
Part of a park dating back to the thirteenth century AD was discovered, highlighting the cultural depth of the historical Jeddah, and its historical role as an active port and a commercial exchange center with the Far East.
Besides, the Ministry completed the first phase of the project to develop the waterfront of Lake Al -Arbaeen, which included the removal of basic facilities and infrastructure, in preparation for the second stage, to re -restore the sea to the historic port of the Banat, in a way that restores the interconnection between the region and its marine identity.

Green spaces were also developed with a total area of 90 thousand square meters, to enhance the aesthetics of the region and improve the living environment.

Improving the quality of operational services

As for improving the quality of operational services and enhancing their efficiency, 110 equipment has been operated to cover a range that extends over an area of 6 square kilometers, with the aim of achieving operational excellence, as well as carrying out cleaning work and providing other services.
In the context of cultural activities, the year 2024 witnessed the organization of the Red Sea Film Festival in the field of culture for the first time, in addition to the opening of the Team Lab Museum with an area of 10 thousand square meters, and the Center for Dramatic Arts and Cinema, which provide an exceptional artistic experience for visitors that combine traditional arts and future arts.
The Royal Institute for Traditional Arts for the Promotion of Local Handicrafts was also opened, and enabling young talents to participate in preserving the architectural and cultural heritage of the region, by participating in restoration and rehabilitation work.
A “legacy” store and cafe has also been opened to provide an exceptional experience that combines entertainment and culture.

An integrated digital experience for visitors

On the level of strategic partnerships, 6 agreements were signed aimed at developing the region and enhancing its sustainability, and the ministry launched the website of the tourist destination to provide an integrated digital experience for visitors, introducing them to the distinctive features and cultural and entertainment features of the region, in addition to responding to their inquiries and a number of other services.

In a move to introduce the new generation to the importance of heritage and enhance the values of identity and national affiliation, more than 140 school and university trips were organized in which 2100 students participated.
500,000 copies of the visitor’s map were also distributed to facilitate the exploration of the area, and to enhance visitors’ experience.

5.7 million visitors

The re -revival efforts led to the historic attraction of Jeddah to more than 5.7 million visitors, including 2.5 million during the Ramadan 2024 season.
The Ministry of Culture continues to continue implementing multiple projects within the general plan to revive the historical Jeddah, including the restoration of historical buildings, the improvement of infrastructure, and the development of the living field for the region.
These efforts aim to enhance the sustainability of the region and turn it into an attractive center for cultural and business projects, and a qualitative destination for cultural tourism pioneers.
This vision comes as an extension of the Ministry of Culture’s strategy in achieving the Kingdom’s 2030 vision targets, aimed at empowering the cultural sector and maximizing the benefit of national historical assets.