Saudi Arabia launches ‘Wrth Saudi’ to showcase traditional crafts along major highways

Dubai: The Saudi Roads General Authority, in collaboration with the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wrth), has launched the “Wrth Saudi” initiative — a cultural project featuring informational signage along key highways across the Kingdom.

The signs highlight significant locations tied to authentic national crafts, blending heritage with a modern visual identity, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Saturday. 

Launched as part of “The Year of Handicrafts,” the initiative’s first phase covers three major highways: Riyadh–Dammam Road, Hijra Road (Mecca–Medina), and Riyadh–Qassim Road.

Future phases will expand to additional key routes across the Kingdom. The signage introduces travellers to traditional crafts unique to each region — including Najdi door-making, clay construction, carpentry and wood decoration, and the bisht, the traditional Arabic cloak — before they even reach their destinations.

Home to one of the world’s most extensive and interconnected road networks — used daily by pilgrims, tourists, and residents — the Kingdom offers a powerful platform through this initiative to showcase its rich cultural heritage.

The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts plays a central role in preserving and advancing national identity by promoting Saudi craftsmanship both locally and globally. It supports artisans, honours cultural pioneers, and fosters innovation in traditional arts through education and community engagement.

Activities

Earlier this year, the institute also launched the “Wrth Community” programme to raise awareness of Saudi traditional arts and cultural heritage, while empowering individuals to learn, preserve, and develop these crafts both locally and globally.

The programme includes discussion sessions featuring academics, artisans, trainers, and entrepreneurs, alongside hands-on workshops. Activities centre around four essential materials used in Saudi traditional arts: stone, wood, ceramics, and metals.

The Ministry of Culture has designated 2025 as the Year of Handicrafts, aiming to solidify the role of handicrafts as a pillar of authentic cultural heritage. The initiative promotes the practice, preservation, and documentation of traditional crafts while reinforcing their relevance in contemporary life. Throughout 2025, the ministry will present a rich calendar of events, exhibitions, educational programmes, and competitions under the Year of Handicrafts banner.