The Riyadh University of Arts (RUA) affiliated with the Ministry of Culture signed today an agreement with the University of Southern California's (USC) School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) to develop cultural and artistic talent and drive cultural exchange.The signing ceremony took place at the Red Sea International Film Festival. Deputy Minister of National Partnerships and Talent Development at the Ministry of Culture Noha Kattan signed on behalf of Riyadh University of Arts, and USC was represented by USC School of Cinematic Arts Associate Dean Alan Baker.Under the terms of the agreement, USC School of Cinematic Arts and RUA will develop the Bachelor's and Diploma's curriculum and courses for students enrolled in RUA's College of Film. Senior SCA faculty and staff will share best practices with RUA's College of Film students and develop special training programs for the college's new instructors in the MENA region and internationally.The USC School of Cinematic Arts is one of the most prestigious and leading institutions for film and cinematic arts education in the world. Located on its campus in Los Angeles, the school has strong ties to the film industry and, over its nearly 100-year history, has graduated some of Hollywood's most notable filmmakers and storytellers.The school offers a uniquely interdisciplinary learning experience, using the latest technological advances and storytelling techniques from the industry to cover all major disciplines of the cinematic arts, including film, television, and interactive media.The agreement with USC School of Cinematic Arts is part of a broader series of partnerships and MOUs between Riyadh University of Arts and its colleges and leading international institutions to co-design academic programs, collaborate on research, and offer enriching cultural education and development programs.‏Riyadh University of Arts was announced in September 2025, at the Cultural Investment Conference by Minister of Culture Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan, as a cornerstone for creative education and cultural innovation, enabling students to acquire the skills and knowledge to shape the Kingdom's cultural sector.RUA will cater to educational levels through gradual phasing, covering all subsectors and offering a comprehensive academic portfolio that ensures continuous education in the fields of arts and culture. Academic offerings include short courses, diplomas, bachelor's degrees, higher diplomas, master's degrees, and PhDs.Full details of RUA, its colleges, and partnerships will be announced on its official website when it launches in the first quarter of 2026.