Center Word
Culture today plays a direct and significant role in the global economy. According to the latest report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), cultural and creative industries generate an annual global income of $2.3 trillion, accounting for approximately 3.1% of the global GDP. UNESCO estimates further highlight that these industries employ around 6.2% of the global workforce. In line with this global trend, Saudi Arabia projects that by 2030, cultural and creative industries will contribute 3% to its national GDP.
This immense economic dynamism within the global cultural sector naturally brings us to consider concepts such as cultural policies, cultural development, cultural markets, cultural cities, soft power, and national branding. Nations, through effective strategies and planning, can leverage their cultural sectors to contribute actively to their economies, enhance the quality of life for their citizens and visitors, strengthen national identities, and participate in shaping and exporting their national brand to the world.
In this context, the importance of independent cultural research centers becomes clear. Through their commitment to scientific and methodological rigor, these centers are uniquely positioned to produce accurate studies, research, and reports that address cultural realities and propose evidence-based solutions and recommendations. They also play a vital role in measuring the impact and interaction of the cultural sector, establishing comprehensive and sustainable databases, and advancing cultural statistics critical for evaluating a country’s development and the success of its cultural strategies.
Moreover, these centers are instrumental in fostering international alignment and contributing to academic research in areas such as cultural heritage, literature, arts, and other cultural products. Their efforts not only inform policy development but also enhance cultural dialogue and promote the role of culture as a vital force in driving economic and societal growth.
Jazeel Center for Cultural Research
An independent Saudi cultural research organization based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It was established in 2023. It is concerned with specialized studies and research in the cultural sectors, and aims, through its products and programs, to participate in serving cultural development and promoting Saudi culture. The center’s research interests in the cultural field vary to include cultural policies, cultural diplomacy and influence, cultural education, cultural tourism, as well as the study of cultural and creative industries such as: Theater and performing arts, cinema, audiovisual arts, music, urban art, fashion and jewelry, and publishing. The center is also interested in cultural studies related to identity, philosophy, language, literature and translation, as well as heritage studies: Tangible, intangible, and natural heritage