Set against the dramatic landscape overlooking Wadi Safar, the program blends history and environment, offering a calm yet engaging escape that reflects the deep relationship between people, land, and tradition in central Arabia.

Open daily from early evening until midnight, Minzal creates a timeless atmosphere where guests can explore Saudi customs through poetry, oral narratives, scenic viewpoints, and cuisine inspired by generations of local knowledge.

The experience is designed to feel organic and lived-in, allowing visitors to move freely between spaces that reflect different aspects of traditional life while enjoying modern comforts and thoughtful design elements.

Running until mid-February, Minzal offers a diverse range of activities including horseback riding, falconry, archery, and astronomy, alongside curated cafes, restaurants, and retail spaces that add a contemporary dimension.

Each element is carefully integrated to ensure authenticity remains central, while still appealing to international visitors seeking meaningful cultural engagement rather than surface-level tourism.

The program is divided into four main zones, each highlighting a distinct dimension of Diriyah’s historical and cultural legacy, encouraging exploration through participation rather than observation.

The Al-Uloom zone focuses on craftsmanship, where leather-working, carpet-weaving, and wood-working demonstrate skills that once supported everyday life and trade across the region.

Nearby, the Sloom experience centers on Saudi hospitality, offering insights into coffee traditions, desert plants, fire-lighting practices, camel-milking, and tent-making that shaped nomadic and settled communities alike.

For those drawn to movement and skill, the Faris Al-Badiyah experience brings equestrian heritage to life through horse riding and archery, emphasizing values of discipline, balance, and respect for animals.

The falconry zone introduces visitors to one of the most iconic aspects of Arabian culture, teaching the traditions, ethics, and techniques associated with hunting alongside trained falcons.

As night falls, the Al-Mushrif zone offers a quieter experience, with stargazing under clear desert skies that reflects how astronomy once guided travel, agriculture, and seasonal rhythms.

Minzal’s setting allows visitors to slow down and reconnect with nature, reinforcing Diriyah’s role as a place where geography and history have always been deeply intertwined.

Beyond entertainment, the program contributes to cultural education by presenting heritage as a living, evolving practice rather than a static display of the past.

Diriyah Season as a whole positions the area as a global destination for heritage tourism, drawing attention to sites that once served as political, cultural, and social centers of the region.

Minzal complements this vision by focusing on everyday life, offering intimate encounters with traditions that shaped community values and collective memory.

The experience reflects a broader national effort to preserve heritage while aligning it with contemporary standards of design, sustainability, and visitor engagement.

By combining Najdi authenticity with innovation, Minzal demonstrates how cultural preservation can coexist with modern development and international appeal.

As Riyadh continues to expand its cultural landscape, Minzal stands out as a space that honors the past while inviting dialogue with the present.

For visitors, the program offers not just activities, but a deeper understanding of how heritage continues to inform identity, creativity, and belonging in today’s Saudi Arabia.

The initiative brings together structured vocal training, national identity, and artistic confidence, offering a meaningful experience that extends far beyond music alone.

Launched as a two-month program, the choral initiative welcomes participants aged between 9 and 18, providing them with professional guidance in a supportive and inspiring environment.

The program reflects a growing emphasis on youth participation in the Kingdom’s cultural transformation and creative development.

In rehearsal rooms filled with energy and anticipation, 75 children are learning to perform the Saudi national anthem “Aash Al-Maleek” alongside the patriotic classic “Watani Al Habib.”

These works are taught in full choral arrangements, allowing participants to experience harmony, discipline, and collective expression.

Training sessions are held three times a week, focusing on vocal technique, listening skills, and ensemble performance that builds musical awareness and teamwork.

Through consistent practice, children learn not only how to sing, but how to listen to one another and perform as a unified group.

Aloula’s leadership has emphasized that the initiative was designed to ensure children are active contributors to the Kingdom’s cultural moment rather than passive observers.

By engaging young voices directly, the program nurtures confidence and fosters a sense of belonging within a shared national experience.

Music, as presented through this initiative, is treated as a tool for holistic development rather than solely an artistic pursuit.

Participants are encouraged to express themselves freely while developing discipline, focus, and emotional awareness through guided training.

Educators from the Saudi Music Hub bring professional expertise and international training to the program, ensuring high-quality instruction rooted in best practices.

The involvement of experienced vocal instructors allows children to discover their individual strengths while adapting to group performance dynamics.

Working with the national anthem holds special significance, reinforcing pride, identity, and cultural connection among the young singers.

Through music, participants gain a deeper understanding of their role within a wider community and shared national narrative.

Students have described the experience as transformative, noting improvements in vocal control, stage confidence, and performance awareness.

For many, this marks their first experience performing in a structured choral setting, making the program a powerful personal milestone.

Beyond the final performance, the initiative aims to leave a lasting impact on participants’ academic, social, and personal development.

Music training has been shown to strengthen memory, focus, collaboration skills, and self-esteem, benefits that extend into everyday life.

The partnership also reflects Aloula’s broader mission of supporting children and families through creative, educational, and social programs.

By integrating arts into early development, the organization reinforces the importance of creativity as a foundation for lifelong learning.

The Saudi Music Hub’s involvement highlights the growing role of specialized cultural institutions in nurturing local talent across the Kingdom.

With facilities in major cities and a focus on accessible education, the hub plays a key role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s musical future.

Collaboration between nonprofit organizations and cultural institutions has emerged as a powerful model for inclusive development.

Such partnerships expand opportunities for young people who might not otherwise have access to professional creative training.

As the program progresses toward its culminating performance, enthusiasm continues to build among participants, families, and educators alike.

The initiative stands as a positive example of how culture, education, and community can intersect to inspire the next generation.

By amplifying young voices today, Aloula and the Saudi Music Hub are helping shape a more confident, creative, and culturally engaged tomorrow.

Held as part of the Horeca exhibition, the competition brings together professional chefs from across the Kingdom, offering a dynamic platform to showcase modern interpretations of Saudi cuisine rooted in heritage and innovation.

Organized by the Culinary Arts Commission, the event reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to developing the culinary sector as a key pillar of its cultural and creative economy under Vision 2030.

The competition highlights how food can serve as a powerful expression of national identity, combining traditional flavors with contemporary techniques that appeal to both local and international audiences.

Participants are challenged to demonstrate excellence in either Cuisine or Pastry categories, ensuring focused evaluation that values specialization, craftsmanship, and artistic expression in each discipline.

By emphasizing creativity and innovation, the event encourages chefs to push boundaries while remaining grounded in the use of local ingredients that reflect Saudi Arabia’s diverse regions and culinary traditions.

Sustainability is a central theme of the competition, with chefs encouraged to adopt practices that reduce food waste and align with global trends in responsible and ethical cooking.

These principles underscore the Culinary Arts Commission’s broader vision of promoting environmentally conscious practices while elevating Saudi cuisine on the world stage.

For participating chefs, the competition offers far more than recognition, providing hands-on professional experience, exposure to industry leaders, and opportunities to build meaningful networks within the culinary community.

The event also serves as a career accelerator, helping chefs refine their skills and pursue competitive paths in both national and international culinary arenas.

Winners stand to gain prestigious rewards, including priority entry to renowned global competitions such as the Bocuse d’Or and the World Pastry Cup, marking a significant step toward international recognition.

Additional prizes such as official medals, personalized chef coats, certificates, and access to elite culinary events further reinforce the competition’s role in nurturing long-term professional growth.

Beyond individual achievement, the Saudi Elite Chefs competition plays a vital role in strengthening the Kingdom’s culinary ecosystem by supporting local talent and fostering innovation across the sector.

It reflects a broader cultural shift in which gastronomy is increasingly recognized as an important creative industry that contributes to tourism, cultural exchange, and economic diversification.

The presence of the competition within the Horeca exhibition further connects chefs with hospitality professionals, suppliers, and innovators, encouraging collaboration across the food and hospitality industries.

As Saudi Arabia continues to open its doors to the world, initiatives like this competition help position the Kingdom as a destination for culinary excellence and creative expression.

By blending tradition with modernity, the Saudi Elite Chefs competition reinforces the idea that cuisine is not only about food, but also about storytelling, culture, and national pride.

The event stands as a clear example of how Vision 2030 is translating into tangible opportunities for Saudi youth, empowering them to compete, innovate, and succeed on global platforms.

Through initiatives like this, Riyadh is steadily building a reputation as a center for culinary innovation, where local talent is celebrated and given the tools to thrive in a competitive global landscape.

The agreement reflects the Kingdom’s long-term vision to strengthen cultural industries and provide world-class opportunities for emerging musicians.

Signed in Riyadh by Paul Pacifico, CEO of the Saudi Music Commission, and Guido Zimmermann, president of Steinway & Sons EMEA, the partnership marks a milestone in the development of Saudi Arabia’s music sector.

It underscores the nation’s commitment to building an ecosystem that nurtures artistic skill, cultivates creativity and attracts global industry leaders.

The collaboration aims to empower local talent through advanced musical training, professional development and increased access to premium musical instruments.

By bringing international expertise together with local ambition, the initiative strengthens the Kingdom’s plan to build a dynamic and sustainable music market.

The agreement will also support artistic education programs and contribute to long-term commercial and cultural investment.

These efforts align with the broader cultural transformation underway in Saudi Arabia, which emphasizes growth, innovation and global engagement.

A key element of the partnership includes exploring apprenticeship programs for piano technicians, offering specialized training in an area essential for performance and instrument care.

Such programs will open doors for new career paths and raise technical standards within the Kingdom’s growing music industry.

The partners will also work together on Music Commission events and initiatives, encouraging high-quality participation while linking musicians to cultural, educational and retail partners across Saudi Arabia.

This network-driven approach is designed to expand professional opportunities and enhance the presence of music in community and national life.

Paul Pacifico highlighted the power of the partnership, noting that the combination of global experience and local creativity will create a strong foundation for education and performance.

He emphasized that developing talent is central to shaping a thriving music economy capable of attracting investment and supporting long-term cultural progress.

Pacifico also stressed that the Commission’s mission is broader than talent development alone, as it seeks to build a music market that encourages business growth, supports practitioners and inspires audiences nationwide.

The agreement with Steinway & Sons reflects this vision by connecting international craftsmanship with Saudi innovation.

Guido Zimmermann praised the Kingdom’s cultural evolution and expressed enthusiasm about contributing to its musical journey.

He described the partnership as a meaningful commitment to education, artistic excellence and the advancement of music-making in Saudi Arabia.

Zimmermann emphasized that Saudi Arabia is entering a remarkable phase of cultural development, with music emerging as a vital part of the nation’s creative identity.

The collaboration aims to strengthen that identity further by supporting young musicians and enhancing access to global standards of training and performance.

As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in creative industries, partnerships like this reinforce its position as a cultural hub within the region.

Music plays a growing role in community life, education and the national vision for artistic expression.

The agreement demonstrates how international cooperation can accelerate cultural transformation while honoring local traditions and aspirations.

By investing in both talent and craftsmanship, the initiative lays a foundation for a vibrant and self-sustaining music sector.

With strategic collaborations, new training pathways and access to premium musical instruments, Saudi Arabia’s music ecosystem is poised for rapid growth.

The partnership with Steinway & Sons represents a strong step toward a future where creativity thrives and musicians flourish across the Kingdom.

The agreement, signed during the Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, reflects a joint commitment to empowering young female storytellers with financial support, training, and industry access.

This collaboration provides students with direct funding from the Red Sea Fund, ensuring that promising film projects receive the resources needed to move from concept to screen.

Alongside funding, mentoring is offered at each stage of production, helping students strengthen their creative voice and technical skills.

The foundation emphasized that this model enhances both artistic quality and professional development, laying the groundwork for a new generation of Saudi women who will shape the nation’s cinematic identity.

This aligns with the cultural ambitions of Vision 2030, which promotes creative industries as key contributors to the Kingdom’s future.

Faisal Baltyuor, CEO of the foundation, highlighted that the renewed partnership reinforces the mission of expanding opportunities for emerging female talent in the film sector.

He noted that the collaboration represents an investment not just in projects, but in the long-term growth of Saudi cinema.

Dr. Haifa Reda Jamal Al-Lail, president of Effat University, stated that empowering women and creating avenues for artistic expression remain central to the university’s mission.

She affirmed that the partnership gives students access to essential industry tools and guidance needed to excel as filmmakers and storytellers.

Saudi women continue to play a growing role in the film industry as the Kingdom builds a dynamic and globally-engaged cultural sector.

Over the past decade, expanding education, investment, and platforms for artistic expression have contributed to a flourishing creative landscape.

Effat University’s Cinematic Arts School, established in 2013 through an academic partnership with the University of Southern California, remains a pioneer in film education.

As the first institution in the Kingdom to offer a bachelor’s degree in film production, direction, and animation, it has shaped the foundation of modern cinematic learning in Saudi Arabia.

Its emphasis on nurturing talent, innovation, and hands-on training has helped elevate the creative capabilities of young filmmakers across the nation.

The school also plays a central role in expanding women’s participation in cultural sectors that were previously limited or emerging.

The renewed partnership stands as part of the Red Sea Film Foundation’s wider Women in Cinema initiative, a program dedicated to supporting female voices and ensuring diverse representation in regional and global storytelling.

Through this initiative, more women gain access to the networks, experience, and visibility needed to pursue filmmaking careers at international standards.

This collaboration is expected to further energize Saudi Arabia’s film ecosystem, encouraging more women to explore filmmaking as a viable and impactful profession.

By equipping students with funding, mentorship, and industry exposure, the initiative helps build a sustainable creative environment that expands horizons for future generations.

As Saudi Arabia’s cultural sectors continue to rise, partnerships like this demonstrate the nation’s commitment to fostering artistic excellence and supporting the ambitions of young women creators.

Together, these institutions are shaping a cinematic future defined by innovation, diversity, and global engagement.

The event spans four days and brings together students, families and visitors to explore a wide range of international traditions.

Held from Wednesday through Saturday, the festival aims to strengthen cultural understanding among students from more than 30 nationalities.

It creates a shared space where both Saudi and international participants can connect outside their academic environments.

Organized entirely by students, the festival features cultural booths, traditional attire displays, live performances and art exhibitions.
It also incorporates interactive experiences that introduce visitors to global customs and creative expressions.

The event is built around four themes — culture, tourism, entertainment and arts. Each theme highlights different aspects of identity, heritage and student creativity from around the world.

Building 57’s outdoor area has been transformed into a walkway lined with national flags representing Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East. Guests walk through rows of booths and performance stations while volunteers guide them through each display.

Student organizers say the initiative grew from a desire to create a more connected campus environment.Many international students often remain within their own communities, and the festival aims to bridge that gap.

Ziyad Al-Harbi, a mechanical engineering student who founded KFUPM WORLD, said the project began as a personal ambition to contribute something meaningful to the university.

He also noted that student exchange efforts have not been fully activated, making events like this an important step toward integration.

The festival has already drawn positive reactions from visitors who appreciate its welcoming atmosphere. Many said the event offers an accessible, engaging look into the university’s diverse student body.

Among the attendees was Ghala Hazza, a high school student, who said she found the experience warm and inviting. She noted that organizers were helpful and praised the effort behind the setup and coordination.

Inside the cultural booths, students showcase clothing, crafts, traditions and foods linked to their home countries. Some visitors stop to take photos with cultural installations, while others learn about languages and historical backgrounds.

The Chinese booth attracted significant attention with its bright red decor and traditional outfits. Booths from Indonesia, Pakistan, Sudan and several other countries also provided unique cultural insights.

Near Building 70, the main stage featured traditional Saudi performances that drew large crowds. Drummers and local folk performers entertained visitors, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the evening.

Students and families gathered to watch the shows, take photographs and participate in parts of the performances. The stage area became one of the festival’s most active spaces during opening night.

KFUPM officials said the event supports the university’s broader goals of enhancing student life and promoting cultural engagement.
It also aligns with national priorities connected to Vision 2030, particularly in the fields of culture, tourism and community participation.

The festival reflects a growing trend of student-led initiatives across the university. Events such as TEDxKFUPM and large student conferences have become regular parts of campus life.

Crowds remained strong throughout opening night as visitors explored each section of the festival. Younger attendees also used the opportunity to learn more about the university’s environment.

For many international students, the event served as a chance to represent their cultural identity. For new visitors, it provided a first look into the social and cultural energy on campus.

Organizers said they plan to expand KFUPM WORLD in the coming years. They aim to include more countries, more performances and additional interactive experiences in future editions.

The Kingdom recognizes handicrafts as a vital expression of national culture. These traditional arts are not only symbols of beauty and craftsmanship but also serve as bridges that connect the past with the present, preserving generations of inherited skills and artistry.

In alignment with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its commitment to cultural development. By encouraging artisans and supporting creative industries, the Kingdom aims to diversify its economy and enhance global recognition of Saudi art and heritage.

The Ministry of Culture has taken the lead in promoting handicrafts as a national cultural project. Its mission is to provide platforms that allow traditional crafts to evolve while maintaining their authenticity and historical value.

Handicrafts represent the Kingdom’s creative spirit through a variety of practices such as weaving, pottery, metalwork, wood carving, and embroidery. Each craft tells a story of heritage, skill, and dedication, reflecting the artistry that has been passed down through families for centuries.

In support of this initiative, the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts continues to nurture talent and preserve the authenticity of Saudi culture.
The institute provides education, training programs, and artistic workshops designed to equip a new generation of artisans with both traditional knowledge and modern innovation.

These programs focus on sustainability, quality craftsmanship, and artistic expression. They encourage students to explore their creativity while staying rooted in Saudi values and cultural identity.

Moreover, the Heritage Commission, in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, has launched numerous training initiatives, competitions, and exhibitions. These efforts aim to promote handicrafts as a living art form, bringing traditional skills into the contemporary marketplace.

The initiative also opens economic opportunities for artisans, especially women and young creators. By supporting small-scale craft businesses and connecting artisans with tourism and retail sectors, Saudi Arabia is transforming handicrafts into a sustainable industry.

Internationally, the Year of Handicrafts will showcase Saudi talent on global platforms. The Kingdom plans to host exhibitions, cultural fairs, and artistic collaborations, offering the world a glimpse into its evolving creative identity.

This renewed focus on handicrafts not only enriches the economy but also enhances cultural diplomacy. Through artistic exchange and innovation, Saudi Arabia continues to share its story of transformation and creativity with the world.

Experts note that the initiative is an inspiring example of how culture can drive national pride and economic growth. By blending traditional artistry with modern innovation, Saudi Arabia is ensuring that its cultural legacy remains vibrant and relevant in a fast-changing world.

As 2025 unfolds, the Year of Handicrafts stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s dedication to creativity, education, and cultural heritage.
Saudi Arabia’s commitment ensures that the art of its ancestors continues to inspire, empower, and connect people across generations and borders.

The festival, curated by Mami Kataoka, Li Zhenhua, and Sara Almutlaq, will feature 60 unique artworks by 59 artists from 24 different nationalities, including 35 newly commissioned pieces. This impressive lineup showcases the unity of artistic expression and highlights Riyadh’s rise as an international destination for creativity and innovation.

Festival Director Nouf Almoneef emphasized that Noor Riyadh is defined by the talent and vision of its artists, who use light as a universal language to connect cultures and inspire dialogue. The event aims to immerse visitors in interactive experiences that merge tradition with modern technology, transforming public spaces into glowing symbols of inspiration.

Among the standout installations is “Scenes of a Matrimony,” a special tribute to the late Safeya Binzagr, a pioneer of Saudi modern art and the first female Saudi artist to hold a solo exhibition in 1968. Her inclusion celebrates her legacy and the evolution of female artistry in the Kingdom.

Renowned international artists such as Michelangelo Pistoletto, James Clar, Ivana Franke, Monira Al-Qadiri, and Muhannad Shono will also contribute pieces that explore the role of light as both a medium and a metaphor for transformation. According to Kataoka, the festival’s curatorial lead, light represents change, beauty, and perception, offering audiences a moment of reflection amid the fast pace of modern life.

Noor Riyadh 2025 will unfold across six key locations in the capital — Qasr Al-Hokm District, King Abdulaziz Historical Center, stc Metro Station, KAFD Metro Station, Al-Faisaliah Tower, and JAX District. Each venue will offer a distinctive atmosphere where contemporary art meets the city’s historical and architectural landmarks, connecting Riyadh’s rich heritage with its futuristic ambitions.

The festival operates under the Royal Commission for Riyadh City and Riyadh Art, both dedicated to transforming Riyadh into one of the world’s most vibrant and creative cities. Riyadh Art has already brought more than 550 artworks to the public by over 500 Saudi and international artists, engaging millions of residents and visitors in shared artistic experiences. Noor Riyadh continues this mission by fostering creativity, cultural dialogue, and community connection.

The full list of participating artists reflects the festival’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, with creators hailing from Saudi Arabia, Japan, Italy, France, the United States, South Korea, Germany, and beyond. This fusion of local and international talent reinforces the Kingdom’s growing influence in the global art scene.

As Riyadh continues to evolve under Vision 2030, Noor Riyadh stands as a shining example of Saudi Arabia’s dedication to cultural development, innovation, and artistic excellence. The festival not only celebrates the beauty of light but also symbolizes the illumination of minds and hearts through art.

Each installation and performance will offer visitors an immersive experience, blending architecture, emotion, and technology into a radiant celebration of creativity. Noor Riyadh 2025 promises to inspire, connect, and transform — turning the city into a glowing masterpiece that celebrates imagination, diversity, and the boundless power of art.