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Ithra, an all-purpose cultural destination

An innovative and creative society, offering a space with the latest educational techniques in the fields of knowledge, arts, science, literature, creativity, design and innovation to all society segments.

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is a creative and cultural hub that empowers human development in Saudi Arabia and beyond by inspiring people to learn, create and collaborate. At Ithra, a cultural window is provided to the world where visitors can be exposed to global experiences within a multi-dimensional learning destination.

An innovative and creative society, offering a space with the latest educational techniques in the fields of knowledge, arts, science, literature, creativity, design and innovation to all society segments.

The facilities include Idea Lab, Library, Ithra Theater, Cinema, Museum, Children’s Museum, Energy Exhibit, Archives, The Great Hall and The Knowledge Tower, all which are housed to provide visitors an immersive and transformative experience. The Center itself is an iconic landmark which reflects its purpose as a beacon for knowledge to illuminate, inspire and catalyze the potential of the Kingdom’s vast talent pool.

History
On May 2008 20, Saudi Aramco’s 75th anniversary, the company launched its most ambitious corporate citizenship initiative: the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra). The celebration was attended by His Majesty the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdulah bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, may he rest in peace, who laid the cornerstore of the project. Saudi Aramco chose to build the Center near the Prosperity Well, the Kingdom’s first commercial oil well.

In recognition of the original source of energy in the Kingdom, Ithra represents a different source of energy: human energy. A new replenishable source of limitless potential and ever-flowing knowledge to feed minds eager to learn, create and produce; to transform a new tomorrow equipped with a knowledge-based society. Throughout its history, Saudi Aramco has continuously invested in human development, education and health in the Kingdom. Ithra is Saudi Aramco’s next step of giving back to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with its people at the forefront, crucial to the country’s future and unleashing their global potential ,in line with Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s evolving cultural landscape.

The Architecture
Rising 90 meters above the Dhahran skyline, the building’s design is purposeful expression inspired by the shapes of oil-bearing rock formations: the source of the Kingdom’s energy wealth.

Built as an architectural marvel, Ithra design and construction was an intricate process involving the formation of the facede with individually formed stainless steel tubes wrapped around the building, utilizing rammed earth compression and implementing LEED energy standards.

Ithra takes the shape of an assortment of different-sized rocks, symbolizing diversity. These rocks also lean on one another to symbolize solidarity, and the interdependency of various disciplines, just as the Center houses many disciplines under one roof.

Knowledge Platform
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is integral to the Kingdom’s growing cultural and creative scene. It is part of the Kingdom’s transformation plan to prepare Saudi Arabia for the industries and opportunities of the future and invest in the potential of its people. We aim to support young local talent and empower them to achieve their full potential by providing the space, as well a  creative and inclusive environment, to nurture and foster their talents.

King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) promises a Knowledge-based platform that inspires and enriches society throughout art appreciation and science discovery. Ithra programs are designed to inspire visitors to develop their passions, generate ideas and acquire knowledge. It aims to offer cross- disciplinary experiences that elicit the interest, ambition and passion of our visitors by providing a variety of cultural and creative programs.

 

Co-Founder & Chief Editor - TravelDailyNews Media Network | Website | + Posts

Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.

She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.

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