LONDON: The Saudi Theater and Performing Arts Commission held an official ceremony on Friday at Goldsmiths Hall in London to initiate the production operations for “Zarqa Al-Yamama,” the first Arab opera show. The event was attended by a number of officials, including Saudi and international creatives participating in the opera production. The show tells the tale of Zarqa Al-Yamama, a renowned figure in Arab history during the pre-Islamic era, known for her blue eyes and unique ability to see from long distances. The opera is a unique exploration of Arabic and Western musical elements that has never been seen before, Saudi Press Agency reported. The ceremony was held under the patronage of Minister of Culture Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan — the chairman of the commission’s board of directors. “Zarqa Al-Yamama” is scheduled to commence in Riyadh in the middle of April and continue with various shows both locally and internationally. It is one of several Saudi projects introduced recently to the international stage, aimed at promoting cultural awareness of the Kingdom’s rich heritage and traditions. In late 2023, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb inaugurated the Kingdom’s pavilion at the World Travel Market exhibition in London. The WTM exhibition provided an opportunity for the tourism sector to establish strategic partnerships with major global markets. Also in late 2023, an immersive exhibition at one of the UK’s newest and most-visited attractions, the Outernet London, invited visitors to explore Diriyah, one of the most culturally significant places in Saudi Arabia. The installation showcased Diriyah’s dual identity as not only the historical birthplace of Saudi Arabia, but the location of one of the nation’s major modern-day development projects being backed by its Public Investment Fund. Saudi Arabia’s participation reflects its role as one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world, achieving 13th position for the number of incoming tourists in 2022.