Alwaleed Philanthropies “Global” and Turquoise Mountain Reaffirm Collaboration with Transformative Artisan Empowerment Programme
Building on nearly 20 years of partnership and projects in Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, Myanmar and Palestine, Alwaleed Philanthropies “Global”, chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Alwaleed bin Talal AlSaud, and Turquoise Mountain are reaffirming their collaboration with a new five-year programme.
The two organisations are formalising the extension of their collaboration at the launch event of a new exhibition, Weaving Poems, at Sotheby’s auction house in London.
The new programme, Connecting Artisans to Market: Taking the Power of Culture Forward, will support artisans to generate income opportunities, preserve traditional craftsmanship and drive cultural excellence and its transformational potential in the Arab world and globally.
The programme reflects the shared vision of the two organisations’ respective founders—His Majesty King Charles III and His Royal Highness Prince Alwaleed bin Talal AlSaud —that cultural heritage has the power to transform lives.
Her Royal Highness Princess Lamia bint Majed Al Saud, Secretary-General of Alwaleed Philanthropies, said: “We believe artisans are essential to preserving cultural heritage and empowering communities around the world. Declaring 2025 the Year of Artisans in Saudi Arabia reflects our commitment to nurturing artisanal talent and honouring their role in shaping a more sustainable future.
At Alwaleed Philanthropies, our work is guided by a long-term vision and strong partnerships that drive lasting impact. Through our collaboration with Turquoise Mountain, we proudly celebrate this rich heritage and help open doors to opportunities that transcend borders.”
"The connection between culture, craftsmanship and the creative industries can be a vital driver of economic development, and this partnership is one of the best examples of that,” said Shoshana Stewart, President of Turquoise Mountain. “We are deeply proud of everything that Turquoise Mountain and Alwaleed Philanthropies have achieved together over the past 20 years, and we are delighted to extend our partnership for the next five.”
Henry Howard-Sneyd, Chairman of Asian Art, Europe and Americas at Sotheby’s, said: “We are honoured to present this inspiring collaboration between Turquoise Mountain and Alwaleed Philanthropies at Sotheby’s in London. Part of the second edition of HAFLA at Sotheby’s - a month-long summer programme that celebrates
London as a cultural melting pot for the arts and creativity - the Weaving Poems exhibition, alongside a curated programme of talks and artisan demonstrations, showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of Afghan artisans and the region’s rich cultural legacy. This partnership highlights the vital role of art in fostering cross-cultural understanding and creating sustainable opportunities for artisan communities globally.”
As a pioneering initiative, the programme will connect artisans, designers and creatives across sectors and geographies. It celebrates the role of Saudi Arabia in championing new horizons in design, innovation and sustainability.
The programme encompasses three mutually supportive pillars designed to connect artisans to market. The first will see Turquoise Mountain partner with the affiliate brand of Alwaleed Philanthropies “Global,” House of Arabia, to launch jewellery and gift collections made by artisans to celebrate cultural excellence in the Gulf.
In parallel, Turquoise Mountain will support collaborations between international designers and artisans that merge heritage excellence with contemporary market appeal. Turquoise Mountain will support the marketing of products produced through these collaborations through promotional events, trade shows and design expos. The third pillar will drive creative ecosystem growth by supporting young and up-and-coming designers and makers with exchange programmes, training in traditional craftsmanship and business support.
The initiative will aim to help at least 2,000 artisans in the Middle East and Asia to access income-generating opportunities by creating sustainable routes to market
