Saudi Arabia has been intent on rehauling its artistic infrastructure and recently announced its plans to construct its first-ever opera house. 

And to emphasize the seriousness of the matter, an announcement was made on Monday that the Paris Opera House would play a major role in aiding the country establish its first opera house and national orchestra. 

The announcement was made by France’s culture minister Françoise Nyssen. 

This will undeniably be a major boost to the country of Saudi Arabia, which has been known for maintaining a conservative attitude toward the arts. Over the years, the country has banned concerts and has even prohibited music in restaurants and stores. That has slowly shifted under the guidance of the young crown prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, who wants to boost the economy and engage more spending domestically.