Ministry of Culture Signs MoU with SIRC to Promote Environmental Sustainability in Historic Jeddah

 The Ministry of Culture has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC) to enhance collaboration in waste management and recycling efforts within the Historic Jeddah district. This partnership aligns with the Ministry’s ongoing mission to revitalize the historic area, promote environmental sustainability, support green initiatives and environmental projects, and improve the overall visitor experience.

The MoU was signed by Eng. Wael Sami Saim Aldaher, District Management General Manager at the Historic Jeddah Program under the Ministry of Culture, and Eng. Haitham bin Hassan bin Hamed, CEO of SIRC's Western Region branch.

The agreement outlines cooperation in implementing best practices for recycling construction and demolition waste as well as managing solid waste by converting it into reusable raw materials, such as gravel and compost, in line with circular economy principles. It also includes the development of effective mechanisms for waste collection, cleaning, and transportation in Historic Jeddah, alongside initiatives to raise environmental awareness among visitors and residents.

Through this partnership, both entities aim to contribute to the national economy and environmental protection by achieving several key targets by 2035. These include driving economic growth and GDP, reducing carbon emissions, enhancing fuel efficiency, and creating employment opportunities. These objectives underscore the Ministry of Culture’s commitment to human development and to achieving both environmental and economic sustainability in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

As part of its continuous efforts to enhance public spaces in Historic Jeddah, the Ministry of Culture has added 120,000 square meters of green spaces across public areas in the district. Additionally, 579 members of the Ministry’s cleaning and maintenance team are currently removing 70 tons of waste daily using 729 specialized pieces of equipment for cleaning and garden upkeep.

This agreement forms part of the Ministry’s broader strategy to revitalize the area, stimulate economic activity, and uphold high standards of operational excellence through best practices in supervision and governance. The goal is to achieve sustainable development in the district through eco-friendly urban development projects and improved services—ultimately enriching the visitor experience and positioning Historic Jeddah as a leading global cultural and heritage destination.