Culture in Motion: Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale
With Saudi Arabia’s cultural scene thriving, the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale returns to the historic heart of the Kingdom as one of its most anticipated moments for the modern arts scene. Set in Diriyah, the Biennale is never the same twice, bringing together over 70 artists from Saudi and around the world, alongside more than 20 newly commissioned works this year. Ready to slow down, reflect, and really take in what they’re putting down? We’ve got the rundown for you.
Saudi contemporary art 101
Whether you’re a film buff, a street art connoisseur, or a live music enthusiast, the Saudi arts scene is booming right now, and there’s never been a better time to be an artist, or an art lover, in the Kingdom. You can start with the scene at the JAX District, where a formerly industrial district has been transformed into creative hub for artists of all stripes, with art studios, record stores, cafes, and everything in between – in fact, before you even walk into a gallery, you’ll see the iconic murals everywhere!
There’s also seasonal glow-up put on by Noor Riyadh, when artists turn the whole Saudi capital into their canvas and we’re all part of the artwork. And if you’d like to get up close and try your own hand at creating some art, you should head to the Misk Art Institute’s packed calendar of workshops and retrospectives.
What is the Biennale?
The difference is in the name: it only comes around every two years, giving the organizers time to bring together some truly interesting perspectives from Saudi Arabia and the international art world. And the Biennale is made for exploration, in the uber modern JAX District, between the striking Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA to the locals) and the towering walls of the old town at At-Turaif. Over here, art unfolds across genres, time, and space, and you’re invited to stop and think before you walk over to the next story.
What’s a Biennale without its theme?
Inspired by the pioneering spirit of the Bedouin, “In Interludes and Transitions” is a reflection on movement, travel, and the transformative power of seeking what lies beyond our immediate horizons. It’s a conversation between song, stories, structures, and dance, presenting works by visual artists, musicians, filmmakers, architects in the historic birthplace – and centuries ago, the capital – of Saudi Arabia. That’s the starting point set by the creators, but the destination, and how long it takes to get there, is totally up to you, viewer.
Making your way over
Whether you’re a culture a vulture and can’t wait to immerse yourself in some new art, or you’re simply looking to do something different this weekend as you take in the cool Riyadh air, we’ve got you covered with some details:
Where?
JAX District: 2598 Muhammad Ibn Rashid Al Uraini, Al Diriyah Al Jadidah, 7120, Riyadh 13732
What?
Free admission, paid parking, plenty of food joints to scope out.
When?
January 30 – May 2, 2026 (aka, chill, you’ve got time)
While you wait
Can’t wait for the big reveal? You can check out the last Biennale here for a taste of what’s to come and book your very own tickets here – it’s free!
