The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts in Jeddah launched the “Traditional Construction Arts” exhibition yesterday. This event showcases the works and innovations of students from the Diploma Program in Traditional Construction Arts in the historic area of Jeddah. It stems from the cultural heritage of the Kingdom and its unique geographical and demographic diversity, aiming to position the country among the developed nations in terms of tourism, culture, and entertainment.

The exhibition, which runs for 13 days at the historic Bayt Nasif, documents the students’ work over their two-year study period. It takes visitors on a journey that reflects the professionalism and craftsmanship of the students, as well as the aesthetic quality of their works in traditional construction arts. This journey showcases projects where students have integrated the skills and knowledge they acquired into works that contribute to the preservation and restoration of the heritage of the historic area of Jeddah (Al-Balad).
The institute offers a Diploma Program in Traditional Construction Arts aimed at empowering national talent through academic and professional preparation in the field of traditional construction, spanning two academic years. The program includes design, teaching the correct artistic methods for engineering traditional decorations in historic Jeddah, as well as skills in drawing, planning, and craftsmanship through hands-on training in various crafts. This deepens the understanding of traditional building and design methods to preserve cultural heritage based on documented scientific foundations, alongside in-depth research studies linked to field visits to existing heritage projects in historic Jeddah. It also examines the practical, aesthetic, and social functions of traditional construction arts and their relevance to contemporary life.
The institute serves to highlight national identity and enrich traditional Saudi arts both locally and globally, promoting them and recognizing outstanding individuals and leaders in the fields of traditional arts. It contributes to preserving the origins of these arts, supports national talents and practitioners, and encourages those interested in learning, mastering, and developing these skills.
The traditional arts included at the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts encompass sadu weaving, Asiri embroidery, pottery, traditional building, metalwork, woodworking, stonework, Arabic calligraphy, embroidery and textiles, palm frond weaving, and performance arts. Additionally, the institute offers continuing education programs, including short and specialized courses, apprenticeship programs lasting 6 to 9 months, and academic programs that extend for two years or more.