In a landmark move to deepen artistic and cultural ties, the Saudi Museums Commission has signed an executive program with Cité de la Musique – Philharmonie de Paris, a leading French institution dedicated to music and heritage. The agreement signals a new era of collaboration, fostering exchanges in museum collections, musical heritage, and public engagement, in line with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 for cultural growth.
Signed on May 19, 2025, in Riyadh, the agreement was formalised by Ibrahim Alsanousi, Acting CEO of the Museums Commission, and Olivier Mantei, CEO of Philharmonie de Paris. This strategic partnership will enhance artistic exchanges, facilitate joint exhibitions, and create immersive learning experiences for museum visitors and music enthusiasts alike.
A Partnership Rooted in Heritage and Learning
At the heart of the collaboration is the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum, an institution dedicated to preserving Saudi Arabia’s rich musical legacy, which will benefit from loans of historic artefacts, collections, and rare musical instruments from France’s Musée de la Musique – Philharmonie de Paris. These contributions will deepen the narrative of music’s role in cultural identity, further establishing the museum as a centre for knowledge, creativity, and inspiration.
Beyond the exchange of collections, the program outlines the development of traveling exhibitions and cultural programs, enabling audiences in both nations to engage with historical and contemporary music traditions. Special emphasis will be placed on educational initiatives, including interactive installations and workshops for children and families, designed to promote musical awareness and appreciation within Saudi society.
A Cultural Dialogue Between Nations
The partnership extends beyond exhibits—it will create opportunities for expert exchanges, bringing together researchers, curators, and musicians from both Saudi Arabia and France. Scholars will collaborate on seminars, dialogues, and academic publishing, further enriching the permanent and temporary exhibitions on display.
Ibrahim Alsanousi expressed enthusiasm for the agreement, stating that music is a profound component of cultural identity, and this collaboration will help transform the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum into an interactive hub of learning and engagement. Similarly, Olivier Mantei praised the Kingdom’s cultural vision, highlighting the mutual spirit of creative exchange that will shape future artistic collaborations between France and Saudi Arabia.
Strengthening Cultural Bridges Under Vision 2030
This agreement builds upon the broader cultural memorandum of understanding between the Ministries of Culture of Saudi Arabia and France, aimed at reinforcing bilateral cooperation across the arts and heritage sectors. With Saudi's Vision 2030 project driving cultural transformation, this collaboration is poised to reshape museum experiences and expand the reach of musical heritage across borders.
As Saudi Arabia continues to elevate its cultural landscape, partnerships such as these highlight the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering global artistic dialogue—one where museums and music converge to tell compelling stories of creativity and tradition.
