His Royal Highness Prince Sultan bin Salman, Chairman of the Board of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH), reaffirmed the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz’s sponsorship of the 30th Janadriyah cultural festival, which stems out of the pride he holds in national culture.

Prince Sultan bin Salman said that King Salman’s vision is embodied in his Majesty’s program for preserving and endorsing cultural heritage, which is being executed in collaboration with a group of governmental bodies.

Prince Sultan bin Salman confirmed to Asharq Al-Awsat that the Janadriyah cultural festival is a significant torch that has glistened over the past 30 years. His highness evoked the virtues of the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz whom had shed light on cultural heritage, in an indication that a long convoy launched for reviving regions and cultural sites, discovering them, and linking citizens to the greatness of their culture. Prince Sultan bin Salman also claimed that the cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia is not only important for the future but also to the national fate.

His Highness explained that a society not familiar with its own heritage and history remains suspended in thin air with no roots to anchor it. Moreover, citizens are main partakers and the most important of factors that play to the equation of cultural sustainment.

Prince Sultan bin Salman praised the efforts of the Ministry of the National Guard, and announced that the Janadriyah festival will continue to be held on an annual basis.

His Highness also mentioned the possibility of the cultural village’s site to be developed into a year-on touristic site attraction, in a process in which the village will fund itself. The prospective project is being studied with the Ministry of the National Guard.

The Ministry of the National Guard, being the most eligible and competent for following through with executing such a project, shall look into the possibility of the village running throughout the year.

Moreover, Prince Sultan bin Salman revealed that a cooperation arranged with the High Commission for the Development of Arriyadh(Riyadh) aims for the establishment of three touristic sites in the Capital City, in hopes of working on the development of those sites, so that they morph into a tourist attraction all year long.

The SCTH pavilion at the Janadriyah festival displays all forms of Saudi culture, while incorporating all available technology.