KUWAIT CITY, Dec 1: Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi on Sunday inaugurated the second Jahra Cultural Season (2025–2026) at the historic Red Palace, an event organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) in cooperation with the Jahra Governorate. The season will continue until mid-February 2026.

In his opening address, Al-Mutairi said this year's edition coincides with Kuwait City’s selection as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media for 2025, reflecting the country’s leading cultural and media position in the Arab region. He noted that the season highlights Kuwait’s initiatives to strengthen cultural exchange, promote creative thinking, and reinforce its role as a cultural bridge connecting nations.

The minister affirmed that Kuwait’s cultural movement continues to receive unwavering support from His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Sabah. He also expressed appreciation to Jahra Governor Hamad Al-Habashi, the NCCAL, and all contributors to organizing what he described as a cultural landmark on Kuwait’s national activity map.

Al-Mutairi said the Red Palace — built in 1896 by Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah — stands as a symbol of national resilience and unity and continues to serve as a center of cultural radiance. He added that this year’s season coincides with Kuwait’s accession to UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee, representing the Arab states, which he described as an important step in strengthening Kuwait’s international cultural presence.

He stressed that NCCAL’s strategy ushers in a new phase of institutional work based on innovation and sustainable cultural production to enhance national identity and position Kuwait as an active cultural destination. He thanked all parties for their efforts and prayed for continued success in preserving Kuwait’s heritage and history.

For his part, Jahra Governor Hamad Al-Habashi said the season reflects the state’s support for cultural activity across all governorates and its role in strengthening national identity. He added that the turnout at the Red Palace demonstrates society’s awareness of the importance of culture in national development and reinforces Jahra’s growing status as a cultural hub.

NCCAL Secretary General Dr. Mohammad Al-Jassar told KUNA the season provides an opportunity to enhance communication between the public and the cultural sector through diverse, high-quality events, including artistic performances and heritage exhibitions. He said the variety of activities underscores NCCAL’s commitment to supporting talent and expanding community participation.

Acting Assistant Secretary General for Antiquities and Museums Mohammed bin Redha said the season will feature workshops designed to develop artistic skills, introduce traditional art techniques, and strengthen community engagement in cultural and folkloric activities. The workshops will be overseen by Kuwaiti specialists and artists and will highlight arts rooted in local identity.

The opening ceremony featured a cultural presentation by renowned artist Jassim Al-Nabhan, who reviewed the history of the Red Palace and its significance in Kuwait’s national memory. A documentary film showcasing the palace’s architecture, artifacts, and heritage spaces was also screened.

The event concluded with Minister Al-Mutairi touring the palace’s exhibitions, including the Camel Ornamentation Exhibition, where he was briefed on the social, cultural, and aesthetic significance of camel adornment in Arab and Kuwaiti heritage.

Part of the opening ceremony of the second Jahra Cultural Season at the Red Palace.