High operational efficiency and integrated cultural experience enhance financial sustainability
The Libraries Authority signed an operating agreement with “Ilm” Company, whereby the company will operate the “Cultural Houses” project in Dammam, Ahad Rafidah, and Riyadh Oasis in Riyadh’s Al-Taawun district, through an operational model based on revenue sharing. This ensures high operational efficiency, an integrated cultural experience, and enhanced financial sustainability.
A step towards enhancing spending efficiency by reducing reliance on government budgets
This agreement represents a step towards enhancing spending efficiency by reducing dependence on government budgets, through converting operational expenses into privately funded investments. This ensures financial sustainability and improves operational efficiency by enhancing service quality and utilizing cultural assets more effectively through innovative solutions.
It also aims to create innovative investment models that guarantee continuous revenue to support operations and maintenance, while enabling partnerships with the private sector to attract quality investments that contribute to infrastructure development and cultural sector growth. Additionally, it provides integrated cultural services offering modern facilities and experiences that meet community needs and promote community participation.
The “Cultural Houses” project stands as one of the most prominent national initiatives in the cultural sector, reimagining public libraries as vibrant cultural spaces embracing arts, knowledge, and innovation. They provide comprehensive interactive environments including theaters, technology labs, multi-purpose halls, co-working spaces, and outdoor event areas, making them open community platforms that reflect Saudi identity and address societal needs.
Cultural Houses
Cultural Houses are community-based centers that serve as hubs for preserving and promoting local arts, traditions, and social activities. They often emerged from grassroots movements or institutional initiatives to safeguard intangible cultural heritage and foster community identity. These spaces typically host workshops, performances, and exhibitions that celebrate regional customs while adapting to contemporary creative expressions.
Dammam
Dammam is a major port city on the Persian Gulf and the capital of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. It grew from a small fishing village into a modern metropolis after the discovery of oil in the region in the 1930s, which transformed it into a vital commercial and administrative hub for the Saudi oil industry. Today, it forms the core of the Dammam metropolitan area, a key economic center alongside Dhahran and Al Khobar.
Ahad Rafidah
Ahad Rafidah is a city located in the ‘Asir Region of southwestern Saudi Arabia. Historically, it has been a significant agricultural center, known for its fertile land and production of crops like dates, grains, and fruits, benefiting from the region’s unique climate and water sources. In recent decades, it has also grown as a modern urban center while maintaining its cultural and agricultural heritage.
Riyadh Oasis
The Riyadh Oasis is a historic agricultural area in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s capital, once a vital settlement along ancient caravan routes. For centuries, it was sustained by natural springs and date palm groves, forming the original nucleus from which the modern city of Riyadh grew. Today, it represents an important cultural heritage site, symbolizing the region’s transformation from a traditional oasis town to a major global metropolis.
Al-Taawun district
Al-Taawun district is a modern commercial and residential area located in the city of Buraidah, the capital of Saudi Arabia’s Al-Qassim Region. While the district itself is a contemporary development, it lies in the heart of a historically significant region known for its deep-rooted agricultural heritage and traditional Najdi culture. The name “Al-Taawun,” which translates to “cooperation,” reflects the community-focused values of the area.
Libraries Authority
The Libraries Authority is a governmental or organizational body responsible for overseeing and managing a network of public libraries within a specific region or country. It typically works to ensure access to information, promote literacy, and support community education. Its history often involves the centralization of library services to improve efficiency and resource sharing among branches.
Ilm Company
I am unable to provide a summary for “Ilm Company” as it does not appear to be a widely recognized place or cultural site. The term “Ilm” is an Arabic word meaning “knowledge,” and it is used in the names of various modern businesses, educational institutions, and tech companies, but none are singularly famous as a historical or cultural landmark. For an accurate summary, more specific details about the location or nature of this company would be needed.
