The Saudi Heritage Commission brought the Kingdom’s maritime history to life through its participation in the Shiraa Wooden Ships Festival held in Jeddah, offering visitors an immersive cultural experience that highlighted traditional seafaring heritage and wooden shipbuilding along the Red Sea coast.
The commission’s participation featured informative and interactive displays exploring the history of wooden vessels, traditional construction techniques, and their vital role in trade, fishing, and maritime transport over centuries. Visitors were also introduced to the craftsmanship of traditional boat builders, gaining insight into the deep-rooted relationship between coastal communities and the sea.
The festival aimed to connect younger generations with the Kingdom’s maritime legacy by presenting cultural content that underscores the sea’s role in shaping national identity, while highlighting Jeddah’s historical significance as a major maritime gateway. Accompanying activities helped raise awareness of the importance of preserving maritime heritage as a core element of cultural memory.
This participation forms part of the Heritage Commission’s broader efforts to showcase and activate diverse aspects of national heritage through cultural events and festivals, supporting cultural tourism, strengthening the creative economy, and reaffirming the Kingdom’s commitment to safeguarding its tangible and intangible heritage for future generations.
