Saudi Arabia vision-2030 and cultural Infitah

Overwhelming changes happened in Saudi Arabia in various spheres of life i.e. political, economics religion, education and culture. Crown Prince, Muhammad Bin Salman took concrete steps to shape the new face of Saudi Arabia. Replacement of ‘Tawiya of Islam’ (Islamic awareness) with ‘Waiyi-al-Fikri’ (intellectual sensitivity is considered the turning point in Saudi history.

Culture once off from the society because it was considered ‘Haram’ to Islam now was being embraced in Project-2030. In 2018 de-Wahhabization process started, the most important and long lasting decision was to re-write the curriculum critical thinking skills and philosophy given priority in high school level. At the same time cinemas, theme parks and opera festivals are popping up in the country. Rock concerts sports events are promoting the soft image, not only of Saudi Arabia but Islam too. Promotion of cultural Infitah and combating religious extremism (which is brainchild of clerical mind set) reflect the clear crystal vision Crown Prince. This paradigm shift reflects the kingdom’s entry into post-Wahhabi era.

Hijaz, being the holy place, always remained the Qibla for whole the Muslim world and on the other side after falloff Ottoman Khilafat it also considered is political Qibla for Muslim countries and on the other side after fall of Ottoman Khilafat it also considered political Qibla for most of the Muslim state. The revolutionary steps taken in Saudi Arabia will definitely put effect on that states, in various ways. Re-designing of curricula at school level is commendable but colleges and universities should also be taken into account comparative studies of religion, philosophy, archaeology, anthropology, literature, linguistics and etc., must be given priority. Translation centres in universities can contribute a lot to achieve the high pedestal for Saudi Arabia in term of civilised country amongst the world. World ligature may translate in Arabic and Arabic literature into other languages will become a game changer. Initiatives for Awards on best writings (like Booker Prize & Noble Prize) will be another best motif in this regard. Establishment of various “Chairs and study centres” in higher Education Institutions is need of the day to moderate the kingdom.

Dr. Fareed Hussain, University of Chakwal Email: gf35651@gmail.com