What sets the AlUla Arts Festival apart is its deeply rooted connection to the storied landscape it calls home. In its fourth edition, the multidisciplinary celebration of art, running until Feb. 22, is a total immersion into art and the desert landscape. From James Turrell’s ethereal light installations to performances by some of the world’s most renowned dancers, the festival is a mix of traditional art from Saudi Arabia and international artists, with exhibitions, performances, workshops, and talks popping up all over AlUla.
Don’t miss Thikra: Night of Remembering, a site-specific performance set in Wadi AlFann from Jan. 25 to 27, featuring original compositions and choreography that bring AlUla’s dramatic landscape to life. Those attending the festival would be remiss to not check out the AlJadidah Arts District for daily classes, talks, and workshops—in addition to Lebanese visual artist and composer Tarek Atoui’s soundscapes, Turrell’s light installations, and the Design Space AlUla, a newly-opened center celebrating design in the region.
Beyond the realm of visual art, there is also live music, open-air movies, public art, and artist residencies inviting attendees to witness the creative process firsthand. Catch the screening of Ayman Zedani’s feature film To the Eagles (until Feb. 18) and the Al Khatt calligraphy exhibitions, which celebrates the traditional art form via installations and galleries.
Other highlights include NEUMA – The Forgotten Ceremony, a collaboration between Saudi artist Sarah Brahim and French artist Ugo Schiavi. Running until Feb. 27, this showcase at Wadi AlNaam and Dar Tantora unveils glass temples and sculptures inspired by AlUla’s stone formations. Elsewhere, Alamaat (on display until Mar. 26) explores the dialogue between ancient archaeology and modern artistry, while Maha Malluh’s outdoor exhibition, Reminiscence (until April 19), is also essential viewing.
With even more art at ATHR Gallery, Bayt Al Hams, and Madrasat Addeera X Design Space, the AlUla Arts Festival is a must-see for anyone who is interested in art, culture, and the magic of the desert.