The Francophonie Festival in Jeddah celebrated the diversity of the French-speaking world while highlighting the growing cultural and academic ties between Saudi Arabia and France through a vibrant gathering of diplomats, educators, students, and artists.
Held at the residence of the French consul general, the event brought together ambassadors and consuls from French-speaking countries, alongside representatives of diplomatic missions from member states of the International Organization of La Francophonie, including Tunisia, Morocco, Chad, and Lebanon.
Students from Effat University and the French section at King Abdulaziz University also participated in the celebration, which combined culture, music, education, and artistic performances reflecting the spirit of Francophonie.
France’s Consul General Mohammed Nehad described Francophonie as a platform for dialogue, cultural exchange, and shared values, emphasizing the growing role of the French language in strengthening Saudi-French cooperation across education, culture, academic partnerships, and student exchange programs.
He explained that the festival aims to bring together French-speaking communities and reinforce cultural connections within the Kingdom, noting that French is not only a language but also a gateway to a rich global culture spanning multiple continents.
The program featured poetry readings from Martinique and Ghana, musical performances in both French and Arabic, and songs performed in Lebanese, Tunisian, and Chadian dialects. Senegalese dance performances also added a festive atmosphere to the evening.
Nehad noted that this year’s edition focused on giving community members and amateur performers the opportunity to express their personal connection to Francophone culture in a more authentic and natural way.
He also highlighted ongoing academic collaborations between French institutions and Saudi universities, including partnerships with the University of Jeddah and the University of Business and Technology, as well as annual summer language programs in France for students from King Abdulaziz University.
Sara Succari, marketing director at Jeddah International School, said the school has participated in Francophonie activities for nearly three decades through its French department, adding that interest among Saudi students in learning French continues to grow.
She stressed that multilingual education is becoming increasingly important for younger generations, especially as mastering French opens wider academic and cultural opportunities.
Dr. Mohamed Aref, professor at the French section of King Abdulaziz University, said Saudi youth are showing growing interest in the French language, particularly as the Kingdom expands its tourism sector under Vision 2030.
He explained that French-language skills are becoming increasingly valuable in tourism, hospitality, and cultural exchange initiatives, with students being trained to work as translators and guides for international visitors and delegations.
Aref also highlighted the university’s partnerships with French educational institutions, including the University of Toulouse, where Saudi students spend one to two months during summer programs to strengthen their language abilities and immerse themselves in French culture.
