Diriyah Season spotlight reflects Saudi Arabia’s pride in its roots:

Riyadh – The Diriyah Season has returned with great enthusiasm, shining a spotlight on Saudi Arabia’s deep pride in its cultural roots and national identity.

The season, themed “Ezek we Malfak” (Your Glory and Refuge), launched on Thursday along the beautiful banks of Wadi Safar in western Diriyah, marking another significant celebration of heritage, creativity, and unity.

The theme reflects Diriyah’s enduring legacy as the birthplace of the first Saudi state and a symbol of the Kingdom’s strength, culture, and history.

Organized by the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), the opening ceremony was attended by Prince Fahd bin Saad bin Abdullah bin Turki, Governor of Diriyah, along with several cultural and media figures from Saudi Arabia and abroad.

The evening was brought to life with artistic performances inspired by the spirit of “Al-Awja,” a term deeply linked to Diriyah’s identity and the pride of the Saudi people.

Through captivating visual displays, advanced lighting, and drone shows, the story of Wadi Hanifa was beautifully told in a performance titled “I Am Al-Awja,” which left the audience inspired and emotional.

Adding to the evening’s charm, the winners of the “Rawi Al-Diriyah” (Narrator of Diriyah) program, Tamim Al-Harthi and Bader Al-Harbi, delivered interactive performances that reflected the profound connection between Saudis and their national heritage.

Their presentations, blending storytelling, music, and tradition, symbolized the deep emotional bond that unites the people of Saudi Arabia with Diriyah — the land where their nation’s story began.

The celebration also featured musical and theatrical performances showcasing Saudi folk traditions, including the Ardah and Samri dances.

These performances highlighted the diversity of Najdi culture and celebrated the artistic spirit of young Saudis, both men and women, who are keeping their heritage alive through creativity and performance.

Ahlam Al-Thunayan, director of Diriyah Season, explained that this year’s theme aims to celebrate Diriyah’s history, values, and culture in innovative ways that reflect the pride Saudis take in their roots.

She emphasized that the symbolism of Al-Awja represents the Kingdom’s continuity — linking the past with the present while inspiring future generations to preserve their cultural identity.

The season features more than 10 diverse programs over 120 days, ranging from cultural and artistic events to historical exhibitions.

Highlights include the “Hal Al-Qusour” program in the Al-Turaif district, where several historical palaces will be opened to the public for the first time, and the “Teen” program, which showcases traditional Najdi architecture.

Other attractions include the “Diriyah Novel Festival” in Al-Bujairi and “Diriyah Nights,” which bring together Saudi culinary art and international dining experiences in a lively and elegant setting.

The “Season Market” in Al-Tawali recreates the charm of old Arabian souqs, while Al-Dhuwairah district will host interactive family activities and craft workshops. Visitors can also enjoy luxury hospitality experiences with scenic views over Wadi Safar, merging modern leisure with historical elegance.

According to the DGDA, all programs are guided by principles of cultural sustainability, empowering local talents and artisans, and fostering partnerships that strengthen cultural tourism in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

The goal is to position Diriyah as a living museum — a place where the past and present merge seamlessly to inspire the future.

Nasser Al-Gharbi, chairman of the Economic Families Association, praised the Diriyah Season as a shining example of how culture and community development can work together.

He noted that the season reflects Vision 2030’s objectives by empowering local communities and creating sustainable economic opportunities through cultural engagement.

Dr. Abdulmohsen Al-Sheikh of the Saudi Economic Association highlighted that initiatives like the Diriyah Season help strengthen local economies, create jobs, and encourage regional investment — all key goals under Vision 2030.

The Diriyah Season ultimately stands as a proud tribute to Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage, creativity, and unity. By blending tradition with innovation, the festival transforms Diriyah into a vibrant cultural hub that connects generations.

It serves as a reminder that the Kingdom’s strength lies not only in its progress but also in its deep respect for its history and identity — values that continue to guide its journey toward a bright and sustainable future.