The Ministry of Culture of Saudi Arabia has launched a landmark initiative - the "Cultural Universe" metaverse. This project aims to preserve and showcase the nation's rich cultural heritage dating back to 1727. Launched on February 22, the metaverse allows users to immerse themselves in the history of Saudi Arabia using Hyperledger Fabric 2.5 blockchain technology from Oracle and Generative Media Intelligence AI system from droppGroup, droppPhygital.

The "Cultural Universe" employs a first-person approach, enabling users to navigate virtual representations of historical events and landmarks. Users can freely explore the space along predefined routes, with Arabic voice audio guides providing detailed explanations of each event. However, the absence of audio in English limits accessibility for non-Arabic speakers.

The universe encompasses sectors dedicated to music, art, history, food, crafts, and mini-games, offering a comprehensive exploration of Saudi heritage. The service is available on various platforms, including websites, mobile devices, virtual reality headsets, and other digital devices, reflecting the Ministry of Culture's commitment to inclusivity and global engagement.

This initiative marks a significant step in Saudi Arabia's efforts to preserve and promote its cultural identity. The Ministry of Culture views the metaverse as a transformative moment to support ancient artistic expression and contribute to the appreciation of Saudi culture.

Samuel Huber, CEO of LandVault, a company involved in the metaverse and collaborating with government agencies in the Middle East, emphasized the region's shift from the "metaverse hype era" to its use for economic growth. Huber highlighted the Middle East's strategic focus on digitizing infrastructure and creating dynamic economies, where the metaverse serves as a key component alongside blockchain and artificial intelligence technologies.

This launch demonstrates the importance of virtual environments in preserving cultural heritage on a global scale. The region is ready to leverage this technology for sustainable development and cultural advancement.