The cultural landscape in Saudi Arabia is undergoing a radical transformation, driven by a strategic concept known as “cultural investment.” Culture is no longer viewed as a mere intellectual pursuit, but has become a fundamental pillar of national development and a promising economic engine. This investment rests on two complementary axes: first, investing in the human and creative potential of society to enhance its cultural growth and intellectual achievements; and second, building a sustainable economic model that incentivizes the continuity of cultural work through meaningful returns, thus ensuring the consolidation of knowledge-based growth, which has become a measure of a nation’s progress and its aspirations for a pioneering future.

General context: Vision 2030 and the new cultural landscape

This growing interest in cultural investment comes within a broader context: the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify income sources and build a vibrant society. Since the Vision’s launch, the cultural sector has witnessed a qualitative leap, marked by the establishment of the Ministry of Culture in 2018. This ministry has since spawned 11 specialized bodies covering various creative sectors, including the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission. These institutional steps were not merely administrative changes; they heralded a new era, placing culture and the arts at the heart of the national project and providing systematic support for creators and intellectuals throughout the Kingdom.

The Geography of Literature: A Renewed Creative Map

At the heart of this movement, the concept of “literary geography” emerges as one of the most important manifestations of cultural growth. Literary creativity is no longer confined to major cities; rather, we are witnessing a wider distribution of talent across the Kingdom’s various regions and provinces. A new generation of writers, poets, novelists, playwrights, and critics is emerging, producing innovative works that reflect the diversity and richness of Saudi culture. These young creators do not represent only themselves; they play a vital role in representing their nation at local and international events, presenting the world with a bright image of the intellectual and creative dynamism within the Kingdom, and winning prestigious awards in major Arab and international competitions.

Importance and expected impact

The impact of this investment extends far beyond local borders. Domestically, it contributes to strengthening national identity, creating jobs in the creative economy, and empowering youth. Regionally and internationally, it enhances the Kingdom's soft power, presenting it as a leading cultural hub in the region and attracting cultural tourism. Major events such as the Riyadh International Book Fair, the Janadriyah Festival, and art biennials have become global platforms showcasing Saudi cultural products and opening avenues for dialogue with world cultures.

Towards sustainable cultural integration

To ensure the continuation of this momentum, a sustainable relationship between the commercial investment sector and the cultural sector is essential. A symbiotic system must be created that supports creators, provides them with a stimulating environment, and simultaneously unlocks promising investment opportunities. The model offered by the General Entertainment Authority in transforming events into successful economic products can serve as an example for the cultural sector. By building strong institutions and effective governance, this creative endeavor can be organized and propelled towards global recognition, while continuously discovering young talent that will raise the bar and solidify the Kingdom's position as a key player on the global cultural map.

The naming of a main street in Al-Ahsa Governorate after the critic Dr. Saad Al-Bazai has sparked a wide-ranging cultural debate about the mechanisms and criteria governing the honoring of intellectual and literary figures in Saudi Arabia. This initiative, which has been widely welcomed, has reignited a long-standing debate: Should the selection of names be based on the intellectual's merit and influence, or should it remain subject to the regulations and controls set by municipalities and local authorities?

Historical background and national context

The practice of naming streets and squares after prominent figures is a global tradition aimed at preserving national memory and connecting generations to their history. In the Kingdom, this practice has historically focused on the names of kings, leaders, prominent historical and religious figures, or classic public names. However, recent years have witnessed a notable shift towards honoring contemporary cultural, artistic, and literary figures—a trend that aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which places culture and national identity at the heart of its priorities and seeks to celebrate the creative individuals who have contributed to shaping societal awareness.

The importance of the initiative and its expected impact

The significance of these initiatives transcends mere symbolic tribute; they carry profound cultural and social dimensions. Locally, these namings foster a sense of belonging and pride among city dwellers, connecting them to their recent cultural history. Critic Dr. Mohammed Al-Dabisi views this act as “a conscious cultural practice closely linked to identity and memory,” functioning as a “silent educational tool” that evokes the lives and contributions of these prominent figures in the minds of passersby, thus enriching the cultural heritage of new generations and imbuing public spaces with a distinctive character.

Intellectuals' opinions: between appreciation and demands for clarity

Intellectuals agree that this initiative represents “the ultimate prize,” as described by historian Mohammed Rabie Al-Ghamdi, who recounted his personal experience with the street named after the poet Mutlaq Al-Dhiyabi in Jeddah, considering it a lasting honor that surpasses the value of any material award. Dr. Ahmed Al-Humaid affirms that naming a street after a literary figure during their lifetime is a source of pride, and after their death, it is an honor for their family and a recognition of their legacy. For his part, Dr. Saad Al-Rifai suggests developing this initiative by adding a QR code to street signs that leads to the individual's biography, thus transforming it into a tool for enriching knowledge.

However, intellectuals are calling for clear and transparent selection criteria. Dr. Al-Dubaisi criticizes what he describes as the “fluidity” of criteria in some areas, advocating for the adoption of scientific principles based on the actual impact of the individual in the fields of education, thought, and journalism, to avoid favoritism or arbitrary selections. Writer Ali Magawi agrees, arguing that commemorating influential figures should be an “official responsibility” to ensure the selection of the most suitable positions and the most deserving individuals.

Official vision: Specific procedures and controls

In contrast, official sources emphasize that the process is subject to strict controls. The municipalities of Madinah, Asir, and Al-Ahsa clarified that street naming is carried out according to instructions and standards approved by the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing. The Secretary of Al-Ahsa Governorate, Engineer Essam Al-Mulla, indicated that the process begins with nominations from specialized entities, then proceeds through a dedicated committee, which selects the most suitable street before final approval is obtained from the regional or provincial authorities. This regulatory framework aims to ensure that the selections are well-considered and meet specific criteria, such as the importance and significance of the street, while also taking into account initiatives to honor certain groups, such as martyrs of duty or writers and intellectuals.