AlUla: Saudi Arabia and France have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their long-standing strategic partnership during a high-level ministerial meeting in AlUla, pledging stronger collaboration across cultural, educational, environmental, and economic sectors.
The meeting of the Saudi-French Joint Ministerial Committee on AlUla was held on Thursday under the co-chairmanship of Saudi Minister of Culture and Governor of the Royal Commission for AlUla Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan and French Minister of Culture Rachida Dati. Senior ministers and officials from both nations took part in the discussions.
Both sides reviewed the key milestones of their bilateral cooperation and outlined new areas of collaboration, positioning AlUla as a global model of innovation, sustainable growth, and international partnership.
Joint investments in AlUla have already crossed €2.2 billion, engaging more than 400 French companies in fields ranging from construction and infrastructure to public services. The collaboration also extends to hospitality, sports, and education. Initiatives include the launch of French language programs at the AlUla Institute of Languages, scholarships for Saudi students to study in France, and the opening of a branch of the renowned Ferrandi Paris culinary school in AlUla.
Sports programs, such as equestrian training ahead of the 2026 World Endurance Championship, have further expanded the scope of cooperation. On the sustainability front, projects like the AlUla tram, the Sharaan Resort designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, and investments in renewable energy, water, and mobility highlight the shared focus on green development.
These initiatives are aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to attract 1.2 million visitors to AlUla, boost international investment, and preserve the region’s cultural and natural heritage.
The meeting also celebrated the launch of Villa Hegra, the first Saudi-French cultural center in AlUla, which will serve as a hub for artistic and cultural exchange and a symbol of the deepening cultural partnership between the two countries.
