The Saudi Ministry of Culture, in partnership with droppGroup and Oracle, confirmed the launch of the ‘Cultural Universe‘, a government-operated national Metaverse initiative for exploring Saudi culture and heritage. Operated by droppGroup’s Generative Media Intelligence (GMI) AI system, droppPhygital, and Oracle’s Hyperledger Fabric 2.5 blockchain network, the initiative went live on February 22, 2024, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s National Founding Day 2024.
Celebrating Saudi Heritage In The Metaverse
Launched to coincide with Founding Day 2024, the Cultural Universe platform offers users a digital counterpart to the day’s in real life’ celebrations, offering a digital exploration of Saudi Arabia’s rich history starting in 1727. It consists of attractions like a History Walk and dedicated sectors for Saudi music, food, art, crafts, history, and mini video games.
For instance, you may explore Saudi cuisine ingredients and cooking methods in the culinary space. As for the games, climb the available trees and collect as many dates as you can within the time available. Points are then awarded for the total number of dates gathered.
Moreover, the Performance Center on the platform will also stream multiple live events, including the Founding Day Beginning Symphony, making the cultural festivities accessible to a bigger audience.
Increased Access To Saudi Culture
Offering a digital twin of Saudi Arabia’s cultural and historical celebrations, Cultural Universe supports Vision 2030’s commitment to improving technology and maintaining cultural values. With droppGroup’s integration of advanced technology into cultural storytelling, they strive to build experiences that blend real and digital elements, paving the way for making advanced technologies accessible to all.
The Cultural Universe is accessible as a web-based experience compatible With Mobile XR, guaranteeing that the users can explore the metaverse across different devices, including VR headsets and desktops. This strategy insists on the Ministry of Culture‘s emphasis on inclusivity, enabling people globally to discover and interact with Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage.
Furthermore, during the Founding Day celebrations, the users from Saudi Arabia and globally participated in the Metaverse events in unexpected numbers, indicating a significant alteration in cultural participation. The Saudi Ministry of Culture terms it as an important move into a new era of cultural expression and activity.
In general, the project strives for technological growth, advancement, and general cultural change, aiming to establish a global community where historical traditions and modern advancements are in harmony.
