The Saudi Ministry of Culture, in partnership with droppGroup and Oracle, recently introduced the ‘Cultural Universe’, a national Metaverse project dedicated to exploring Saudi culture and heritage. This initiative, which utilizes droppGroup’s Generative Media Intelligence (GMI) AI system, droppPhygital, and Oracle’s Hyperledger Fabric 2.5 blockchain technology, was officially launched on February 22nd, coinciding with Saudi Arabia’s National Founding Day in 2024.
The Cultural Universe platform serves as a digital counterpart to the physical celebrations held on Founding Day 2024, allowing users to delve into Saudi Arabia’s history dating back to 1727. It includes attractions such as a History Walk, as well as dedicated sections showcasing Saudi music, art, history, food, crafts, and mini video games. For instance, users can learn about Saudi cuisine and cooking techniques in the Culinary section, while also engaging in games like collecting dates by climbing trees within a set time limit.
The accessibility of the Cultural Universe platform sets it apart, as it is available as a web-based experience compatible with Mobile XR, enabling users to explore the metaverse on various devices, including VR headsets and desktop computers. This emphasizes the Ministry of Culture’s commitment to inclusivity, allowing individuals worldwide to discover and engage with Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between real-world traditions and digital advancements, providing a global community where historical customs and modern technologies coexist harmoniously.
During the Founding Day celebrations, participants from Saudi Arabia and beyond were actively involved in the Metaverse events, signaling a significant increase in cultural engagement. The Saudi Ministry of Culture views this project as a pivotal step towards a new era of cultural expression and activity. Beyond technological progress, the initiative seeks to instigate a broader cultural transformation, fostering a shared space where age-old traditions and contemporary innovations converge seamlessly.
By blending technology with cultural storytelling, droppGroup aims to create immersive experiences that transcend physical boundaries, ushering in a future where advanced technologies are accessible to all. The Cultural Universe stands as a testament to Vision 2030’s mission to promote technological advancement while preserving cultural values, setting a precedent for other nations to follow suit in embracing the potential of the metaverse for cultural preservation and dissemination.
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