The Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art (NMAA) has signed a partnership agreement with Saudi Arabia's Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) to collaborate on exhibitions, conservation, research, and staff exchanges. The deal, signed on May 14 by NMAA director Chase Robinson and RCU CEO Abeer AlAkel, focuses on the ancient site of Dadan, a capital of the Lihyanite and Dadanite civilizations. The partnership covers joint conservation and research projects, exhibition loans, and professional development over four years.
This agreement matters because it represents a major cultural exchange between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy and promote tourism. However, it also raises concerns about 'art washing,' as critics accuse the kingdom of using cultural partnerships to distract from human rights abuses, including the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The deal follows President Donald Trump's visit to Riyadh and Saudi Arabia's $600 billion investment commitment to the U.S.