Introduction: Heritage as an economic and cultural force
The Janadriyah Village, accompanying the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival, stands as a leading example of "investing in heritage," having transformed a vast 15,000-square-meter area in the heart of Riyadh into a comprehensive economic and tourism hub. This initiative is not merely an event accompanying camel races; it represents a strategic step to support productive families and entrepreneurs, providing a high-quality marketing platform that contributes to the development of this vital sector and enhances the Kingdom's position as a destination for heritage tourism.
Historical background: Camels from a cultural symbol to a global sport
Camel racing is deeply intertwined with the history of the Arabian Peninsula, where camels were once the lifeblood of the land, serving as a means of transportation and trade. Over time, camel racing has transformed from a traditional practice into a well-organized sport enjoying significant government support, particularly after the establishment of the Saudi Camel Racing Federation. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival, now in its third edition with prize money exceeding 75 million riyals, crowns these efforts and solidifies the sport's international standing. The "Janadriyah Village" draws its name and spirit from the National Festival of Heritage and Culture, also known as Janadriyah, which has been the premier platform for celebrating Saudi identity for decades, offering a condensed and intensified version of this rich cultural heritage to camel racing visitors.
Al Janadriyah Village: An integrated experience for visitors and entrepreneurs
The village offers its more than 1,500 daily visitors a comprehensive cultural and entertainment experience for the whole family, open from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM. It features over 60 diverse pavilions (booths), meticulously designed to cater to a wide range of tastes. These pavilions house a selection of restaurants serving traditional and contemporary cuisine, cafes, and shops showcasing heritage products, handicrafts, and modern goods. This space provides an ideal platform for local producers to display their products and reach a broad audience, generating direct economic returns and contributing to the sustainability of their small businesses.
Importance and expected impact: local and international dimensions
The importance of Janadriyah Village extends far beyond entertainment and shopping. Locally, it contributes to strengthening national identity among younger generations through its interactive events, such as the Samri performances that revive folk arts, and the camel riding experience that offers visitors a unique adventure. Regionally and internationally, the festival and its accompanying village enhance the Kingdom's position as a global hub for camel sports and heritage tourism. This event, overseen by the Saudi Camel Racing Federation, aligns directly with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to diversify income sources, develop the culture and entertainment sectors, and transform heritage from a mere historical legacy into a sustainable tourism and economic product that attracts visitors from around the world.
