Saudi Arabia and France discuss strengthening AlUla development cooperation

The Saudi-French Joint Ministerial Committee for AlUla discussed strengthening the partnership and cooperation for the development of the AlUla region across various sectors, including culture, tourism, the economy and heritage preservation.

The meeting, held in Paris on Monday (24/8), was chaired by Minister of Culture and Governor of the Royal Commission for AlUla Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan and French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot.

The meeting began with a welcome for the signing of an agreement to extend and amend the accord between Saudi Arabia and France concerning cultural, environmental, tourism, human resources, economic and heritage development in AlUla.

The two countries then reviewed the achievements of the partnership and discussed opportunities for future cooperation.

They affirmed AlUla’s position as a meeting point of civilisations and a global destination for culture, creativity and sustainable development.

The two countries also reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the partnership, which is considered to have become a model of international cooperation based on the exchange of benefits and knowledge to support comprehensive and sustainable development.

The meeting also discussed joint investment and ongoing cooperation in the fields of archaeology, art, culture, sports, hospitality and human resources development.

The partnership includes strategic projects such as the AlUla Tram and the Sharaan Resort designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, as well as investments in renewable energy, water and mobility.

These projects support Saudi Vision 2030 targets to attract one million tourists and global investment, while preserving AlUla’s cultural and natural heritage.