Galata Tower replica highlights Saudi efforts to encourage domestic tourism

Saudi Arabia is embarking on a cultural evolution, aiming to expand its economy beyond oil. Recent projects by Saudi firms have replicated miniature versions of iconic cities like Istanbul and Paris in Riyadh, offering themed parks that allow tourists to enjoy these attractions without traveling abroad.

A video shot at a themed park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is making its way to social media users in Türkiye, drawing attention to a miniature version of Istanbul. The Galata Tower, one of Istanbul’s iconic structures, is prominently featured as a site frequently visited by tourists.

The video features not only the Galata Tower, but also other landmarks such as the Grand Bazaar and Turkish ice cream.

Among the comments made by people under the social media post, there are observations that this reflects Saudi Arabia’s desire to keep its local citizens within the country without sending them abroad as tourists.

Massive $800 billion investment in tourism

The Kingdom is investing in an ambitious construction spree, creating luxury hotels, theme parks, private islands, cruise ports, and even a ski resort in the desert.

According to Forbes, the crucial question remains: will this lead to a genuine influx of tourists? Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, which aims to break free from its historical dependence on oil and diversify its economy, has a significant focus on culture and tourism.

Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Farhan Al Saud is actively overseeing archaeological projects in the desert city of Mada’in Saleh and Al Ula.

Growing Investments in film industry

Moreover, investments in the film sector have surged, becoming a vital component of the Kingdom’s broader strategy. Nestled between vibrant red cliffs and burnt-orange sands, an untouched state-of-the-art film studio awaits its first production at the foot of Al Ula, a city established along the Silk Road 2,000 years ago.

In a landmark move, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman lifted the ban on cinemas in 2018, marking the initial step towards revitalizing Saudi Arabia’s film industry and transforming the Kingdom into a Middle Eastern film hub. Subsequently, the Red Sea International Film Foundation was established with a mission to showcase the diversity and dynamism of Arab, African, and Asian cinema, alongside sponsoring a film festival and a $15 million fund for projects by African and Arab directors.

Cultivating new generation of art enthusiasts

To foster a new generation of art enthusiasts who appreciate theater and cinema, a commission has been established, chaired by the Culture Minister. As part of this initiative, a program named Sitar has been launched to support theater actors, associations, and groups. Plans have also been announced to train 25,000 teachers to provide theater lessons in state schools. Furthermore, the Riyadh Theater Festival will be held annually.

Saudi Arabia’s inaugural opera, “Zarqa Al-Yamama,” which tells the story of a renowned character from pre-Islamic Arab history, was recently announced by the Saudi Culture Minister in London. The opera uniquely combines elements of Arab and Western music, marking its debut on stage this month.

Ambitious museum plans unveiled

According to Professor Bernard Haykel from Princeton University, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has grand plans for a museum. Haykel noted that the famous painting “Salvator Mundi” has been kept in a safe in Geneva since its purchase and awaits the museum’s completion. Renaissance art expert Alison Cole commented that the announcement of the painting being the centerpiece of a new, large museum in Riyadh is not surprising, highlighting its potential to attract the same extraordinary interest as the Mona Lisa.

Art writer and dealer Kenny Schachter previously claimed that the painting was kept on the Crown Prince’s 134-meter super yacht, suggesting it is stored where he can easily access it.

Turkish influence behind cultural shift

Perhaps the most striking evidence of change in the Kingdom comes from a commission led by Burak Cakmak, a Turkish professional who has held leadership positions at GAP, Gucci, and Swarovski. Cakmak previously served as the fashion dean at Parsons School of Design for five years before accepting a position in Saudi Arabia. His fashion show garnered such significant attention that the Saudi Press Agency described it as a “cultural and economic milestone.” The Fashion Commission has set a goal of establishing 100 Saudi brands within the industry.