Culture Minister announces Riyadh and Madinahs inclusion in UNESCO Creative Cities Network

Madinah and Riyadh have been added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, according to a statement made by Saudi Culture Minister Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan.

Madinah was honored for its culinary skills, and Riyadh joined the network in the design category, further solidifying Saudi Arabia's position as one of the most inventive and creative cities in the world.

The two Saudi cities have now been formally added to the worldwide network that honors cities that use creativity as a catalyst for sustainable urban and cultural development, after UNESCO's confirmation of the 2025 evaluation results.

The Architecture and Design Commission confirmed Riyadh’s selection following a coordinated nomination campaign carried out in partnership with government bodies, academic institutions, and private-sector collaborators. The nomination highlighted Riyadh’s vibrant and evolving design ecosystem — encompassing architecture, urban planning, industrial, interior, product, and digital design — underscoring the city’s emergence as a leading center for creativity and innovation in the region.

UNESCO has also named Madinah a Creative City of Gastronomy, making it the second Saudi city to earn this distinction after Buraidah. The Culinary Arts Commission spearheaded the nomination in partnership with the Madinah Region Development Authority, the National Committee for Education, Culture and Science, and a broad coalition of public, private, and nonprofit partners. Madinah’s rich culinary traditions mirror its historic role as a meeting point of cultures and trade routes. Renowned for its fertile volcanic soil, abundant produce, and time-honored recipes handed down through generations, the city continues to celebrate its deep-rooted gastronomic heritage.