The Saudi Arabian government is now seeking Greek expertise in archaeological excavation for its new cultural sector in a bid to diversify economy beyond oil and enhance quality of life in the Arab state.
Saudi Arabia is due to sign a cultural partnership agreement with Greece later this year, that would include joint cultural weeks and focus on archaeological development that will allow the countries culture ministry meet its target of contributing 3% or more to the kingdom’s gross domestic product by 2030 and create 100,000 jobs for young Saudis.
The Saudi culture ministry was established three years ago under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s modernisation plan. Thanks to the prince’s reform drive, the conservative kingdom has opened up, allowing live concerts and sporting events, as well as cinemas in a bid to attract foreign talent and business.
