Cultural Development Fund Empowers Handicrafts Industry at “Banan” Exhibition

Riyadh, Gulf Tech News

The Cultural Development Fund (CDF) will participate in the second edition of the Saudi International Handicrafts Week Exhibition “Banan” at Roshan Front in Riyadh from November 23 to 29. The event is organized by the Saudi Heritage Commission under the patronage of His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Minister of Culture, Chairman of the Heritage Commission, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the CDF

Under the theme “Cultural Financing for Sustainable Heritage,” the Fund’s participation solidifies its key role as a supporter and financial enabler for the cultural sector in Saudi, showcasing its financing and development services for creatives, entrepreneurs, and businesses, while building strong relationships with those interested in the heritage sector. 

As part of its participation, the Fund will host an interactive booth within the Heritage Commission’s Partner Zone offering an opportunity for artisans and entrepreneurs to explore the Fund’s Cultural Financing offerings, designed to support the 16 cultural sectors across the entire value chain, including the heritage sector and handcrafts industry. The Fund’s presence at “Banan” facilitates meaningful interaction with artisans to better understand and address their challenges and help qualify them for Cultural Financing Program, enabling them to develop their projects with the Fund’s support.

This year’s edition will also highlight the CDF’s collaboration with acclaimed Saudi visual artist “Hams Murayh,” recognized for her captivating depictions of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri on palm fronds. This collaboration will offer visitors a live, interactive cultural experience, where they can acquire her artwork and help extend its exposure to a regional and global audience.

In line with its commitment to support the handicrafts industry, the Fund is inviting several CDF’s beneficiaries to join the “Exhibitors Pavilion” alongside over 500 local and international creatives, to engage with potential partners, expand their networks, and showcase their craft.

“Banan” serves as a dynamic platform that brings together artisans and creatives from Saudi Arabia and beyond from over 20 countries. The exhibition extends beyond celebrating the rich traditions of Saudi handicrafts; it also empowers artisans to display and promote their handicrafts and connect with a broader audience.

Founded in 2021, the CDF seeks to enrich Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape. It is organizationally linked to the National Development Fund and aims to foster the development of a self-reliant cultural sector. By supporting cultural activities and projects, empowering those interested in them, and facilitating investment in the sector, the CDF works to improve the cultural sector’s profitability in alignment with the National Culture Strategy and Saudi Vision 2030.