The Ministry of Culture today celebrated the conclusion of its "Year of the Camel 2024" initiative at a ceremony held at Leseen Valley in Riyadh, honoring the partners who supported the initiative and helped it achieve its goals. The ceremony was attended by a host of officials and cultural leaders, including Deputy Minister for Institutional Communication Saleh bin Suleiman Al-Shubaily, Deputy Minister for National Partnerships and Capability Development Noha bint Saeed Qattan, and Deputy Minister for Cultural Events and Festivals Mai bint Obaid Al-Rasheed.

The Camel's Place in Saudi Culture

In his remarks, Al-Shubaily underscored the significance of the "Year of the Camel" initiative as a celebration of an authentic component of Saudi and Arab culture, noting that it was launched on the directives of the Kingdom's leadership to reinforce the camel's status as a cultural symbol reflecting Saudi identity and its authentic values. He pointed to the camel's civilizational and economic role as a cultural icon and an inseparable part of Saudi heritage.

Ceremony Highlights

  • A video presentation: featured "camel chanting" (Al-Hida'), a Saudi cultural element inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
  • A documentary film: chronicled the story of the Year of the Camel 2024 initiative and the efforts made throughout the year.
  • Partner recognition: honored participating public- and private-sector entities as well as non-profit organizations.

Festival Conclusion

The ceremony marked the end of three days of cultural events and creative activities highlighting the camel's place in Saudi culture. Activities ranged from heritage performances to workshops and interactive activities that drew in different segments of society, in a celebratory atmosphere rich in cultural heritage.

Goals of the "Year of the Camel 2024" Initiative

  • Spotlighting the camel as a cultural element: reflecting Saudi heritage and its authentic values.
  • Strengthening national cultural identity: through local and international events celebrating the camel.
  • Promoting Saudi heritage globally: through cultural and artistic activities highlighting this unique element.