The Gulf’s big bet on the creative economy

Published 28 Oct,2021 via Business Daily - The creative economy is now being recognised by governments and non-state actors as a leading driver of growth, and a sector that can enhance innovation. At the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX) in Dubai last week, the creative economy was a key focus of discussions.

Mayada Badr, CEO of the newly formed Culinary Arts Commission in Saudi Arabia, said: “Food is an essential part of every culture and history. At the Culinary Arts Commission, we are proud of our unique and diverse culinary heritage and seek to promote it locally and globally. To do so, we will showcase the unique Saudi culinary traditions and position the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a destination for the culinary arts.”

Unlike other sectors, creative industries empower individuals to think, act and take charge of their own development. It animates the kind of creativity that can lead to inclusive, long-term growth. Countries that have properly nurtured the industry have discovered that it is a source of socio-economic advancement, job creation and innovation. It is in this regard that the Gulf states in an attempt to diversity their economies have taken a keen interest in the creative sector.