Since the launch of the “National Cultural Awards” initiative, the Ministry of Culture has taken upon itself to build a recognition system that goes beyond celebrating creative achievement to acknowledging all who contribute to its making and enablement; which made it, with each cycle, seek renewal and not settle for the boundaries from which it started; to annually add new tracks that reflect the transformations and expansion of the cultural scene. It launched in 2021 with 14 tracks, reaching in its latest edition for 2025 to 19 tracks, a clear indication of the sector’s vitality and growing roles.

Economic and Social ValueAmong the awards introduced by the initiative in its third edition is the “Award for Businessmen and Businesswomen Supporting Cultural Activity”; to shed light on a dimension that has long been present in the shadows, namely support, investment, and belief in the cultural field. Although it appears outwardly as a creative act, in its depth it needs a system of funding and sponsorship that allows it to continue, expand, and reach a larger audience.

The introduction of this award was not merely a recognition of a new category, but an explicit acknowledgment that businessmen and businesswomen are real partners in shaping the cultural scene. It celebrates those who believe that culture is not a marginal activity, but an investment field with economic and social value, contributing to building the Kingdom’s image and enhancing its civilizational presence.

Effective Contributions to Community ServiceThe award was won in its first edition of the third cycle of the National Cultural Awards initiative in 2023 by businessman Abdulrahman bin Mahfouz for his tangible giving and effective contributions, having placed community service at the forefront in many fields, including the cultural sector. In the 2024 cycle, the award went to the late Mohammed Al-Buwardi, a man of community initiatives in Shaqra Governorate, and the first to encourage the restoration of archaeological sites in the governorate. He also sponsored the construction of a model theater seating three thousand spectators for celebrations and national events in Shaqra. The latest edition of the award for 2025 went to businessman Abdulmoneim Al-Rashid, a pioneer in developmental work in Al-Ahsa. His foundation cooperated with the Heritage Commission to support intangible cultural heritage, and he was honored for sponsoring qualitative developmental and cultural initiatives, as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Abdulmoneim Al-Rashid Humanitarian Foundation, and for his efforts in supporting talents, crafts, and heritage.

Culture as an Opportunity for Giving and GrowthThe importance of the award lies in its ability to motivate businessmen and businesswomen to engage more deeply in supporting cultural projects, whether through sponsorship, direct investment, or long-term partnerships. It grants recognition to those who took the initiative, and opens the door for others to see culture as a real opportunity for giving and growth simultaneously. Thus, the award transforms into a strategic tool that enhances the concept of the creative economy and supports diversifying income sources in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The award also contributes to highlighting inspiring models from businessmen and businesswomen who have adopted cultural initiatives, supported events, and contributed to enabling talents, making their stories a source of inspiration for others and evidence that investment in culture is not limited to financial returns but extends to creating impact and building a legacy.

Through this award, the “National Cultural Awards” initiative reaffirms its ability to read the sector’s needs and respond to them through recognition tracks that reflect the diversity of its actors. Just as it celebrates the creator, it also celebrates those who prepare the environment for him, support his career, and give him the opportunity to make his voice heard worldwide. With this extension, the “Award for Businessmen and Businesswomen Supporting Cultural Activity” becomes more than just recognition; it is a message affirming that culture is a collective project where creativity intersects with investment, and vision meets responsibility. Between these, the Saudi cultural scene grows in maturity, progress, and success.