The Royal College of Art, United Kingdoms (U.K.), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Architecture and Design Commission under the Ministry of Culture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on 19 May 2024. The MoU was signed in the King Abdullah Financial District during the ongoing “Great Futures” Initiative conference. Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO, represented the Saudi Architecture and Design Commission. Professor Christoph Lindner, President & Vice-Chancellor of the Royal College of Art, represented the leading university.
Potential Areas of Cooperation
According to the Saudi Architecture and Design Commission’s social media account, “This MOU aims to develop the architecture and design sector in the Kingdom through international partnerships.” There are four potential areas of cooperation envisaged by the MoU.
- Collaboration concerning accelerators and business incubators in the Architecture and Design sector to boost entrepreneurship programs
- Effective partnerships in the academic sector to build educational enrichment courses in Architecture and Design
- Collaboration to envisage workshops and short courses in the Architecture and Design field
- Collaboration to host awards and competitions in the field of Architecture and Design
Celebrating Architectural Heritage
Professor Christoph Lindner expressed his delight in working with the Saudi Architecture and Design Commission. He praised the Department for its remarkable support of Saudi architects and efforts to preserve the beautiful architectural heritage of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Professor Christoph stressed the importance of cultural exchange and partnerships for a global university like the Royal College of Art. It helps create a diverse community of perspectives and knowledge. He noted that he looked forward to the various outcomes of this agreement.
Building International Strategic Partnerships
Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman pointed out that the MoU was an indicator of the Saudi Architecture and Design Commission’s commitment towards knowledge creation and exchange in the field of Architecture and Design. By enhancing international cooperation, this MoU will contribute to the growth and development of this sector, achieving new standards of excellence. Dr. Sumayah also noted that this MoU is part of the Commission’s more extensive international strategic partnership plans to foster development and innovation in the sector. This MoU is aligned with the Commission’s unique approach to involving international organisations to attract and apply best global practices.
The Architecture and Design Commission aims to develop the sector and support practitioners in the field. In doing so, it seeks to expand the architecture and design sector while preserving the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabian architecture. The MoU is part of several agreements between Saudi Arabia and the U.K. By facilitating educational and cultural exchange between both countries, the MoU will surely provide a global perspective to the unique Saudi architectural perspective.
