As a Saudi designer who has worked abroad, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 has been a remarkable journey to witness and be a part of. This ambitious plan to transform the nation’s socio-economic landscape, especially its approach to culture and heritage, resonates deeply with me.

The opening up of Saudi Arabia to tourism, along with the influx of international entities, has led to a dynamic exchange of cultures. It’s a double-edged sword, and I’ve seen firsthand the concerns of fellow Saudi designers who fear that our rich heritage might be misunderstood or exploited by outsiders.

These concerns are valid, and as custodians of our culture, it’s only natural to be protective. We cherish our traditions and heritage, from the intricate designs of our clothing to the architectural marvels that grace our cities. To see them misrepresented or commodified is a genuine worry.

However, it’s important to differentiate between heritage and design. While our heritage is deeply rooted in our history and traditions, design is the contemporary expression of our cultural identity. In this era of globalization, it’s natural for design to evolve and incorporate elements from other cultures. As Saudi designers, we have the opportunity to shape this evolution, to blend our heritage with international influences to create something uniquely Saudi yet globally relevant.

My experiences abroad have taught me that cultural exchange is a beautiful thing. It’s not about erasing our roots but about sharing them with the world. Working in international settings, I’ve met people eager to learn about Saudi culture, traditions, and design aesthetics. They’re not looking to appropriate; they genuinely want to understand and appreciate.

In my own work, I’ve found inspiration in the fusion of cultures. The Western influence on Saudi fashion, like the incorporation of streetwear elements, has opened up exciting possibilities in design. It’s not about erasing our identity but about evolving it, creating something uniquely Saudi yet influenced by the world.

Saudi Arabia’s decision to open its doors to tourism isn’t just a policy; it’s an invitation. It’s inviting the world to explore, understand, and engage with our culture and heritage. It’s a chance for the world to see us beyond the stereotypes and headlines.

Of course, with this open-door policy comes the responsibility to ensure that our cultural heritage is respected. Outsiders should approach our traditions and symbols with sensitivity and understanding, acknowledging the historical and cultural context.

But let’s not forget the need to embrace and support those internationals who want to learn and embrace our culture and contribute to the evolution of our design. As Saudi designers, we have the opportunity to be cultural ambassadors, to guide and collaborate with those who genuinely seek to engage with our heritage and design.

As Saudi designers with a global perspective, we must embrace the fact that cultural exchange is a two-way street. While we aspire to achieve worldwide recognition and contribute to international design, we cannot expect to stop the reverse flow of influences. Instead, we should actively welcome this exchange, recognizing the potential for innovation and enrichment that it brings to our own work. In an interconnected world, it’s through this dynamic exchange that we can truly create designs that resonate globally while preserving the essence of our Saudi heritage.
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is an exciting chapter in our nation’s history. It’s an opportunity for us, as Saudi designers and artists, to share our culture and design with the world and to learn from others in return. It’s a chance to celebrate our heritage while embracing the global tapestry of cultures and design styles. It’s not just about Vision 2030; it’s about envisioning a world where cultural exchange and innovative design are bridges to understanding, unity, and the co-creation of something beautiful and meaningful.