Saudi Arabia Launches “Cultural” Metaverse
In a move to celebrate its founding day, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Culture has unveiled a pioneering metaverse platform dedicated to preserving and showcasing the nation's cultural heritage.
The Cultural Universe metaverse initiative, launched on February 22nd, offers users a virtual journey through Saudi Arabia’s extensive history, dating back to 1727.
Utilizing cutting-edge technology, the platform was developed on Oracle’s Hyperledger Fabric 2.5 blockchain and powered by droppGroup’s innovative Generative Media Intelligence AI system known as droppPhygital.
Unlike traditional historical narratives, this metaverse adopts a dynamic approach, allowing users to explore freely along designated paths. Virtual representations of significant historical events trigger informative audio descriptions, enriching the user experience. However, it’s worth noting that the audio content is currently available exclusively in Arabic.
Beyond historical exploration, the Cultural Universe features diverse sectors dedicated to music, art, history, cuisine, crafts, and engaging mini-games, all rooted in Saudi heritage.
Accessible across multiple platforms including websites, mobile devices, and virtual reality headsets, the initiative reflects the Ministry of Culture’s commitment to inclusivity and global engagement.
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The Ministry of Culture views this metaverse as a transformative endeavor, heralding it as a cultural revolution aimed at preserving and promoting Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural legacy.
Meanwhile, in the broader context of technological advancement in the Middle East, industry experts observe a strategic shift towards leveraging innovative technologies such as the metaverse, blockchain, and AI to drive economic growth. This shift underscores the region’s commitment to digital transformation and the creation of dynamic economies for its citizens.