A celebration of creativity amidst ancient wonders.
The AlUla Arts Festival is captivating audiences once again, bringing together a remarkable fusion of local, regional, and international art and design against the breathtaking landscapes of Saudi Arabia’s historic city. A flagship event of the year-round AlUla Moments calendar, the festival unfolds across several key locations, including the historic AlUla Old Town, the immersive Wadi AlFann, and the vibrant Gathering Square in AlJadidah Arts District, which serves as the festival’s focal point.
A Spectacular World Premiere
One of the most anticipated highlights of this year’s festival is the world premiere of ‘Thikra’, a visionary performance choreographed by internationally renowned dance artist Akram Khan and directed by acclaimed Saudi artist Manal AlDowayan. Commissioned by Wadi AlFann, this mesmerising performance takes place against the dramatic natural backdrop of the Valley of the Arts, a 65-square-kilometer cultural destination where contemporary land art is permanently installed, creating a compelling dialogue between art and nature.
A Glimpse Into AlUla’s Future Cultural Icons
The festival unveils the upcoming contemporary art museum in AlUla, which features Bayt Al Hams, a groundbreaking commission by Tarek Atoui. This interactive installation includes a concert performance and daily opportunities for visitor engagement. Meanwhile, James Turrell’s exhibition at Wadi AlFann showcases the iconic works of the light and space artist, offering an immersive and otherworldly experience.
Celebrating Tradition And Innovation
At the Madrasat Addeera Exhibition in Design Space AlUla, visitors explore works created within the school, highlighting the seamless intersection of tradition and modernity in AlUla’s evolving artistic identity. The festival also hosts Neuma: The Forgotten Ceremony, an evocative art installation and exhibition by Saudi artist Sarah Brahim and French artist Ugo Schiavi, which embodies the spirit of the upcoming Saudi-French cultural institution, Villa Hegra.
A Tribute To Arabic Calligraphy
Arabic calligraphy takes center stage with AlKhatt, presented by Arts AlUla in collaboration with Khawla Art and Culture. Highlights include a striking installation by Sheikha Khawla bint Ahmed Khalifa Al Suwaidi, a curated concept store showcasing abayas, designer furniture and jewellery, and a solo exhibition by Lebanese artist Ghaleb Hawila. Visitors can also admire masterpieces by renowned calligraphers such as Wissam Shawkat and Abdallah Akkar.
A Dynamic Cultural Experience
Beyond the exhibitions, the festival offers an exciting public programme featuring live performances at the AlUla Music Hub, open-air screenings at Cinema AlJadidah, and year-round workshops at Madrasat Addeera that celebrate AlUla’s artistic traditions.
As AlUla cements its status as a global cultural destination, the AlUla Arts Festival 2025 promises an unforgettable experience where art, heritage, and innovation converge in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.
Get up close with the AlUla Arts Festival at experiencealula.com
