Five Saudi artists were honored here this week for creating the world’s largest hand painting and ensuring Saudi Arabia’s entry into the Guinness Book of World Records.

Dina Al-Nahdi, Ashwaq Dali, Nabil Tahir, Ahmed Najar and Tagreed Wazna used 1.2 million handprints to create their 10,235-square-meter map, which was unveiled on the country’s 83rd National Day.

Prince Muqrin, second deputy premier, chancellor and special envoy for Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah, honored the artists at a ceremony held on Monday at the offices of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI).

Al-Nahdi said they achieved their goal. “We are so proud of everyone who helped us. This was done with the help of 1.2 million people including officials the poor and orphans, with environmentally friendly paint and fabric.”

She said they broke the record held by Kuwait. The map was made in coordination with the Ministry of Education, the JCCI and the Presidency of Meteorology and Environment.

Prince Muqrin said the artists had made the country proud. They had “proved their loyalty and love by breaking the world record and bringing honor to the country.”

Sheikh Saleh Kamel, president of the JCCI, praised the artists’ use of materials that could not harm the environment.

There was also praise for Environment Technology Co., Ltd. (Intec) for launching the campaign.