Pakistan is set to host the World Culture Festival in Karachi from October 31 to December 7, with cultural groups from Saudi Arabia participating for the first time. The event is being hailed as one of the largest multicultural festivals in the world, according to Muhammad Ahmed Shah, President of the Arts Council of Pakistan.
The seven-week festival will bring together artists from 141 countries, representing every continent. The lineup includes 37 participants from Africa, 41 from Asia, 36 from Europe, 13 from North America, 11 from South America, and three from Oceania.
In total, the World Culture Festival will showcase 45 theater productions, 60 music performances, 25 dance shows, six art exhibitions, 25 workshops, and 15 interactive talks. More than 25 international and 30 national artists are expected to perform, highlighting a vibrant fusion of global and local talent.
“This year, cultural groups from across the Middle East are joining the festival, including Saudi Arabia,” Shah said during a media briefing. He expressed gratitude to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his role in advancing cultural exchange and supporting artistic endeavors in the region.
Shah also emphasized the festival’s mission to promote peace, tolerance, and intercultural understanding. He noted that artists from conflict-affected areas will participate, sending a message of unity through art and culture. “When people from around the world come here, they will see how peaceful we are,” he remarked.
The Arts Council president revealed that the festival had received over 2,800 film submissions, a number unmatched by any other cultural event worldwide. He added that filmmakers from countries like India and Israel had also shown interest in participating, demonstrating the festival’s growing global appeal.
Shah further praised the Sindh administration for its support, noting that Pakistani cinema will be featured alongside international works, showcasing the country’s artistic depth and storytelling heritage.
The World Culture Festival in Karachi is poised to become a milestone in global cultural diplomacy, bringing together artists, filmmakers, and performers in a celebration of creativity and harmony.
