The program was organized by the House of Artists in cooperation with the Jeddah Society for Culture and Arts.

"Abdullah Nawawi did a lot for Saudi art and artists. He introduced our art and artists’ work on the national and international level,” said House of Artists President Sami Al-Dousari. “Today we honor him to recognize his support and brilliant work.”

He further said that Nawawi’s efforts would help encouraging artists to work for their country and people. As art plays a significant role in exposing the tradition, culture, history, and lifestyle of the people of any country, the work of Saudi artists is very valuable.

“We need people like Abdullah Nawawi, who spent their life serving the country and its people,” he added.

Hani Al-Sayed, assistant executive director of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) in Makkah, who was the guest of honor,  said it was a proud moment for the commission to honor such a talented artist, who promotes Saudi art and artists in the world.

“Saudi artists are talented, but they need ways to show this talent. We are proud to have Abdullah Nawawi, who always brings honor for the country and teaches young artists the importance of art,” he said.

He also said that Saudi art and artists needed to show their talent on the international level to help promoting Saudi culture and tradition. “Jeddah has a lot of talent, and we would like Saudi artists to participate and show their talents around the world in order to take the name of the country to new heights,” said Al-Sayed.

Abdullah Nawawi thanked all guests, the House of Artists and the Jeddah Society for Culture and Arts for honoring him. He said he was truly passionate about having been chosen and given respect for his artistic work and the support he gave to Saudi artists, art and culture.

“I am very happy and grateful to all my colleagues and artists, who think I did a lot of work to promote Saudi artists and art. In my opinion, however, it was my duty to take the name of my country to a high level and let the world know about the Kingdom’s artists and culture.

“I would like to work more with my friends and colleagues as well as with young Saudi artists, because they are talented and keep improving themselves,” said Nawawi.

He advised young Saudi artists to create their own style, work hard and cooperate with each other, adding they needed some time to develop themselves. Nawawi started his work almost 40 years ago and took part in numerous exhibitions on the national and international level. He also organized a number of Saudi art exhibitions around the world and traveled with artists.

The art society president at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) Hisham Ahmed Binjabi said, “Abdullah Nawawi is one of the most famous artists who did a lot for Saudi artists and art, not only on the national but on the international level as well. “He continues supporting them and has his own way and style. I appreciate what he is doing, as he supports and promotes not himself but the Kingdom’s artists and art. He deserved this honor.”

Thirty other Saudi artists who participated in a workshop about Saudi culture, tradition, history, architecture and lifestyle held in the Balad area of downtown Jeddah were also honored.