Traditional crafts in Saudi Arabia are witnessing renewed interest among the youth, who are finding innovative ways to connect cultural heritage with modern opportunities through training programs and workshops.
Young craftsman Hammad Al-Shammari, specializing in mud construction, said his passion began during the restoration of a historic home, where he discovered the beauty of old architecture with its unique decorations and columns.
Through his studies at the Royal Institute for Traditional Arts, he enhanced his craft academically and practically, learning how to merge heritage with contemporary innovation.
The Royal Institute for Traditional Arts plays a vital role in strengthening national identity by training young Saudis, honoring master craftsmen, preserving tangible and intangible heritage, and raising awareness locally and internationally.
Urban heritage researcher Mamdouh Al-Harbi highlighted the importance of knowledge transfer, noting that in the past, crafts were family-based trades passed down through generations, but many declined with industrialization and urban expansion.
Today, under Vision 2030 and new legislation, traditional crafts have shifted from endangered practices to a vibrant creative sector linking cultural identity with economic growth.
Modern technologies such as 3D printing and virtual reality are now integrated into training programs, while heritage motifs are being incorporated into public buildings, showcasing a blend of tradition and innovation.
Experts stress that the success stories of Saudi youth turning crafts into entrepreneurial ventures are reshaping public perception, ensuring that traditional crafts remain relevant, dynamic, and an integral part of the Kingdom’s cultural identity.
