Artistic community takes center stage as KSA celebrates National Day
Saudi Arabia’s growing artistic community played a key role on Monday as the Kingdom celebrated its National Day.
Amid a raft of entertainment and cultural events throughout the Kingdom, musicians, singers, painters and artists of all sorts seized the opportunity to show their love for the homeland.
Many said the social reforms led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had given them the freedom to express themselves. “Saudi Vision 2030 touched the souls of the youth, and their happiness reflects the effects of all the changes,” Abdullah Al-Hodaif, founder of the art platform Arbab Al-Heraf, told Arab News.
“Before the changes, we were cautious about presenting anything that might conflict with the Kingdom’s vision, but now it seems the Kingdom’s vision has been created for what we want to present. It supports better quality life, opening up to the world.” There was a serious side to the day, too, as diplomats from the world’s leading countries congratulated the Kingdom on the anniversary of its founding. “The US-Saudi partnership is more vital than ever, particularly as we confront regional security challenges and work hand-in-hand to achieve shared economic and political objectives,” US Ambassador John Abizaid said.
“We have supported one another for decades and look forward to many more years of beneficial partnership.”
UK Ambassador Simon
Collis recalled that the British explorer and diplomat Capt. William Shakespear had been a trusted friend and military adviser to King Abdul Aziz, who united the Kingdom in 1932. “From that day until today, we have considered ourselves a friend and partner for Saudi Arabia to help achieve its ambitions and support its goals in line with Saudi Vision 2030,” he said.