Saudi Ministry of Culture Signs Partnership with ESSEC Business School for Riyadh University of Arts

Riyadh: The Saudi Ministry of Culture signed today a partnership with ESSEC Business School, for Riyadh University of Arts (RUA)’s College of Cultural Management, to nurture creative talent and foster cross-cultural exchange.

The signing ceremony was held at Fenaa Alawwal, a leading cultural hub in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter. Ms. Noha Kattan, Deputy Minister of National Partnerships and Talent Development, Saudi Ministry of Culture signed for Riyadh University of Arts, while Mr. Vincenzo Vinzi, Dean and President, signed on behalf of ESSEC Business School.

Under this partnership, ESSEC will collaborate with RUA to co-design and deliver specialized programs for the College of Cultural Management, equipping future leaders with the skills to shape the evolving cultural landscape.

Founded in 1907, ESSEC Business School is among Europe’s most prestigious institutions, recognized for its academic excellence, global reach, and commitment to innovation and ethical leadership. Its programs emphasize experiential learning and empower students to drive meaningful impact across industries.

The partnership with ESSEC is part of a series of partnerships and MoUs between Riyadh University of Arts and top-tier international institutions, advancing academic excellence, research collaboration, and world-class cultural education.

Riyadh University of Arts was announced last September at the Cultural Investment Conference by His Highness Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan AlSaud, Saudi Minister of Culture, as a cornerstone for creative education and cultural innovation. The university aims to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and vision needed to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s creative economy.

RUA will offer a progressive educational framework spanning all levels and disciplines within the arts and culture sectors, including short courses, diplomas, bachelor’s, higher diplomas, master’s, and doctoral programs.

Further details on RUA, its academic programs, and international partnerships will be available on its official website, set to launch in the first quarter of 2026.