Seven global institutions have joined the launch of the Alwaleed Cultural Network, a recently launched programme by Alwaleed Philanthropies that includes seven leading educational and cultural institutions from five countries.

The networking platform aims to promote tolerance and cross-cultural understanding in an era of transformation and diversification. Partners will work together to increase collective global impact through a series of projects and online workshops. The network is a recognition that diverse cultures have remarkable histories and ties in common.

‘Through this initiative, we collectively extend an arm to the world and provide opportunities to those who may not have access to concrete infrastructure and resources otherwise,’ said Princess Lamia bint Majed Saud, secretary-general and member of the board of trustees of Alwaleed Philanthropies.

Partners of the project include the Alwaleed Islamic Studies Program, Harvard University (US), Center for American Studies and Research, American University of Beirut (Lebanon), Center For American Studies, American University in Cairo (Egypt), Center for Islamic Studies, University of Cambridge (UK), Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, University of Edinburgh (UK), History of Science Museum and Pitt Rivers Museum at Oxford University (UK), and Museum of Islamic Art, Pergamon Museum, Berlin.

The inaugural ceremony, hosted by Diriyah Gate Development Authority in the At-Turaif historical district, was attended by almost 100 guests, including Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan.