The opening ceremony was attended by Education Minister Prince Faisal bin Abdullah, Prince Sultan bin Salman, secretary-general of Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA), and Culture and Information Minister Abdul Aziz Khoja.
Addressing the ceremony, Prince Sultan emphasized the Kingdom's efforts in taking care of heritage and culture. "We are a country of civilization, history, reforms and humanity," he said.
He commended Prince Khaled's efforts in developing Suk Okaz as a major cultural center and a tourist destination.
Rashid Al-Ghamdi, executive director of Suk Okaz, said the organization's strategic plan is devised based on its historic position and its role in promoting cultural discourse. "Suk Okaz will highlight the Kingdom's cultural progress and achievements," he said.
He said the SCTA would support Suk Okaz's strategic plan with necessary manpower and funds. SCTA will also revise the market's annual programs in order to attract more tourists and visitors.
"We have an intention to hold five new exhibitions, bringing the total exhibitions to be staged at Suk Okaz to 15. They include an exhibition on the achievements of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah and another exhibition titled the Kingdom of Humanity and King of Peace," Al-Ghamdi said.
The total area of Suk Okaz covers 10 million square meters including the areas for exhibitions, the gallery for art shows, the new platform to stage various programs and open areas. He commended the support extended by the various government departments, especially the services provided by the Civil Defense to ensure safety and security of the market.