The Saudi Ministry of Culture, partnering with droppGroup and Oracle, has unveiled the ‘Cultural Universe’, a pioneering national Metaverse venture aimed at immersing users in Saudi culture and heritage. Powered by droppGroup’s Generative Media Intelligence (GMI) AI system, droppPhygital, and Oracle’s Hyperledger Fabric 2.5 blockchain tech, this initiative debuted on February 22nd, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s National Founding Day 2024.
Rolling out on Founding Day 2024, the Cultural Universe platform invites users to embark on a digital odyssey mirroring the day’s real-world festivities, offering a captivating journey through Saudi Arabia’s colorful history dating back to 1727. It features captivating attractions like the History Walk and dedicated sectors spotlighting Saudi music, art, history, cuisine, crafts, and even mini video games.
For instance, in the Culinary section, users can dive into the world of Saudi cuisine ingredients and culinary techniques, while the gaming zone challenges players to scale trees and amass as many dates as possible within a set timeframe, with points awarded for the total number collected. Additionally, the Performance Center within the platform will stream live events such as the Founding Day Beginning Symphony, extending the reach of these cultural celebrations to a global audience.
Serving as a digital reflection of Saudi Arabia’s historical and cultural fervor, the Cultural Universe embodies Vision 2030’s commitment to technological advancement while preserving cultural heritage. Through droppGroup’s integration of cutting-edge technology into cultural storytelling, the aim is to create immersive experiences that seamlessly blend real-world and digital elements, democratizing access to advanced technologies for all.
Accessible as a web-based experience compatible with Mobile XR, the Cultural Universe ensures users can engage with the metaverse across various devices, including VR headsets and desktops. This approach underscores the Ministry of Culture’s commitment to inclusivity, enabling people worldwide to discover and engage with Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural tapestry.
Moreover, during the Founding Day celebrations, an unprecedented number of users from Saudi Arabia and around the globe participated in the Metaverse events, signaling a significant shift in cultural engagement. The Saudi Ministry of Culture views this as a pivotal leap into a new era of cultural expression and engagement.
Ultimately, the Cultural Universe project aims not only for technological advancement but also seeks to catalyze a broader cultural transformation, fostering a global community where historical traditions and modern innovations harmoniously coexist.