I could not have envisaged a trip to The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Autumn of last year and to Judge their ‘Colors of Saudi Forum’ awards now in their 3rd year. The Awards are the brainchild of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities under the patronage of HRH Prince Sultan bin Salman Al Saud, whose prime goal is to increase awareness of the cultural wealth of the Kingdom. As yet there is no such thing as a ‘Tourist Visa’ to the Kingdom but I have no doubt that will come in the not too distant future.
I was overwhelmed by the ancient sites and that most of us in the Western world simply have no idea exists. Historical cities that are being awarded UNESCO recognition as World Heritage sites, a National Museum full of treasures literally from the dawn of time and the Saudi people themselves, the true cultural jewel of this country in the cradle of civilisation.
I returned just before Christmas to educate appreciative Saudi photographers and meet so many of them from Royal Princes to enthusiastic amateurs and professionals at the Saudi Colors exhibition and awards. My reception was overwhelming and their Social Media channels were alive with my teaching and walkabouts. I can’t wait to go back one day to deliver more.
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