The Saudi Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with droppGroup and Oracle, has recently unveiled the groundbreaking ‘Cultural Universe’ initiative. This government-operated national Metaverse project aims to provide individuals with an immersive experience to explore Saudi culture and heritage in a digital space.
On February 22nd, the Cultural Universe platform was officially launched to coincide with Saudi Arabia’s National Founding Day in 2024. Utilizing droppGroup’s innovative Generative Media Intelligence (GMI) AI system, droppPhygital, and Oracle’s Hyperledger Fabric 2.5 blockchain technology, this initiative represents a significant milestone in the preservation and promotion of Saudi Arabia’s rich history.
Exploring Saudi Culture Digitally
The Cultural Universe platform offers users a diverse range of attractions, including a History Walk and dedicated sections for Saudi music, art, history, food, crafts, and mini video games. For example, users can delve into the intricacies of Saudi cuisine in the Culinary section or challenge themselves to collect dates in the mini video games. Additionally, the Performance Center on the platform streams live events, such as the Founding Day Beginning Symphony, enhancing the accessibility of cultural festivities to a global audience.
Supporting Vision 2030
By providing a digital twin of Saudi Arabia’s historical and cultural celebrations, the Cultural Universe aligns with Vision 2030’s goal of advancing technology while preserving cultural values. This initiative underscores the Ministry of Culture’s commitment to inclusivity, allowing individuals worldwide to interact with and discover Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage in a virtual environment.
During the Founding Day celebrations, participants from Saudi Arabia and around the world engaged in the Metaverse events in unprecedented numbers, signaling a shift in cultural participation. The Saudi Ministry of Culture views this as a significant step towards a new era of cultural expression and activity, emphasizing the importance of fostering a global community that embraces both tradition and innovation.
The Cultural Universe Metaverse initiative represents a fusion of cutting-edge technology and cultural preservation, paving the way for a transformative cultural landscape. By blending real-world experiences with digital elements, this project not only promotes technological advancements but also fosters a global cultural shift towards harmony between historical traditions and modern advances.