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 initiative turns warehouses, studios, cafés and open-air spaces into intimate music hubs that spotlight local talent and growing creative communities.

From JAX District to Sports Boulevard and the Diplomatic Quarter, these events will feature some of Saudi Arabia’s most innovative music collectives.

Groups such as Underrated X, MDLBEAST Records, The Fridge, Bohemia Records, Merwas and The Warehouse will curate unique night series that complement the festival’s main program.

On Dec. 7, The Fridge will open the series with “The Fridge Open Mic powered by Sennheiser” at Personage Warehouse C11 in JAX District.

The event includes a Little Legends session for young performers aged 7–14, followed by an open mic for ages 15 and above, offering emerging artists a free platform supported by a full professional backline.

The celebration continues on Dec. 8 with “The Fridge Presents,” showcasing three rising Saudi artists: Shargeeya, Zain Faiez and Turki Abdullah.

Their performances highlight a range of original sounds, from soulful pop and Afrobeat to hip hop storytelling and modern alternative styles rooted in Saudi heritage.

On Dec. 9, The Fridge brings back its renowned Concert Series with a lineup centered on Arabic pop, trap and R&B.

Headlined by Tamtam with Khaleeji Blonde opening, the evening emphasizes Riyadh’s growing influence in shaping a new era of contemporary Arab music.

URX will present “Riyadh Rhythm” on Dec. 10 at SALT in Riyadh Park, offering a night of curated house and electronic music in an open-air setting.

With a community-driven atmosphere and space for 300 guests, the event supports rising DJs while highlighting Saudi Arabia’s evolving artistic identity.

MDLBEAST Records will also join the Fringe experience with a showcase paired with a session by the International Music Managers Forum.

Featuring MDLBEAST AllStars, the night will focus on Arabic electronica and progressive genres, underscoring the label’s commitment to elevating regional and global talent.

Bohemia Records will host “Wax Head – A Bohemia Records Takeover” on Dec. 9–10 at TWH — J08 in JAX Culture, Diriyah.

The event celebrates underground music culture with vinyl sessions, DJ sets, interactive listening rooms and a “Beans & Beats” coffee rave followed by live performances.

At JAX District, The Warehouse will serve as a central Fringe location on Dec. 7–8 with two signature oriental music nights.

Lammah on Dec. 7 invites the audience to become the performers, singing classic Arabic melodies alongside a live band in an intimate, joyful setting.

Jalsat on Dec. 8 will offer a cozy winter ambiance with Arab and Khaleeji songs that honor the spirit of tarab.

Different artists will headline each night, creating nostalgic and cultural experiences rooted in traditional sounds.

Merwas, known as the world’s largest music studio complex, will host a special one-night Fringe session at its rehearsal space.

The evening will include private studio tours and a live band performance blending Arabic and English music, allowing audiences to explore the creative world behind the industry.

With interactive moments, diverse musical styles and deep cultural engagement, the Fringe program adds a fresh layer of vibrancy to Riyadh Music Week.

The events celebrate Saudi talent while strengthening the city’s reputation as a thriving global center for creativity and musical expression.

Organized by student groups Diwan and Estiraha in collaboration with KFUPM Student Affairs, the exhibition recreated the experience of these cafes where visitors once paid to check emails, browse the web, and connect socially, while blending history with contemporary art and technology.

Although the initiative was led by Gen Z students in their early 20s, including Diwan founder Fajer Al-Mindeel and creative director Wateen Al-Zahrani, the exhibition attracted visitors of all ages, allowing both younger attendees and alumni to engage with a piece of digital history.

Al-Mindeel explained that the inspiration for the event came from spending time on campus and learning about the stories behind the university’s buildings, prompting the team to recreate an experience that honored the cultural and technological past of KFUPM.

KFUPM, founded in 1963 as an all-boys school, has recently begun enrolling women, and several female students featured in the exhibition are among the first graduating class, highlighting both the evolving inclusivity and rich heritage of the university.

Al-Zahrani noted, “One of the most rewarding aspects of organizing the exhibition was reconnecting with alumni who have deep ties to the university, retrieving personal archives, and incorporating their memories into the installations, which created a meaningful and immersive experience for all visitors.”

The students specifically chose Building 10 to host the event, a space that historically served as a cultural hub for performances and movie nights in the 1980s and ’90s but had recently been limited to academic functions, allowing the exhibition to revive the building’s original communal spirit.

Al-Mindeel added, “The venue has historical significance, including hosting a speech by Queen Elizabeth II, and we wanted to combine that heritage with a modern exploration of digital culture and technology, creating a bridge between past and present.”

The exhibition featured works by 14 artists, both Saudi and international, including Mohammad Al-Faraj, Basmah Felemban, Sarah Abu Abdullah, Asaad Badawi, Ally Yanxiu Liu, Abdulelah Quttub, Fai Ahmed, Rama Saputra, Sumayah Fallatah, Dalal Madhi, Hamdan Ahmed, Khaled Makhshoush, and Studio Bin Hattan, whose creations either were commissioned specifically for the event or developed in recent years.

The installations included 12 archive computers from the university, historical books from the library, contemporary artworks, and immersive sound design, with potted plants and interactive elements enhancing the atmosphere and encouraging visitors to reflect on their evolving relationship with technology.

Al-Mindeel highlighted that some of the works explored important contemporary issues, such as environmental impact, showing how daily interactions with technology, including AI platforms, have consequences that are often overlooked but increasingly relevant in modern society.

Student Jood Alshikhi shared her perspective, saying, “The exhibition’s strength was in how it intertwined past and present, beginning with memories of early encounters with computers and transitioning into a modern, art-focused digital world, illustrating how our use of technology has transformed from shared social moments to personalized, creative experiences.”

Visitors left with a sense of both nostalgia and awareness, seeing firsthand how early internet culture has influenced current digital habits, while experiencing a dynamic space that combined historical artifacts, artistic expression, and interactive technology to engage multiple generations.

The event successfully celebrated KFUPM’s history and student creativity, demonstrating how younger generations can honor the past while innovatively interpreting technology’s role in society, fostering community connection, and reviving cultural traditions on campus.

Running in Riyadh until Nov. 26, the event stands as a powerful platform that honors the role of Saudi women in preserving cultural identity while introducing innovative ideas that reflect the nation’s growing artistic confidence.

Visitors to the festival are welcomed into a warm atmosphere filled with storytelling, craftsmanship and cultural diversity, where more than 20 countries participate and share their unique crafts and traditions.

The gathering emphasizes empowerment, unity and inspiration, showing how artisans from different regions and backgrounds contribute to the shared language of creativity.

Saudi visitors like Rahaf Al-Harthi praise the festival for showcasing the exceptional abilities of Saudi women, many of whom continue to redefine traditional crafts through fresh interpretations and modern flair.

Al-Harthi expressed pride in seeing local talent celebrated on such a global stage, noting that the festival reflects the strength, dedication and artistic excellence of Saudi women throughout history.

One of the most admired crafts featured is Sadu weaving, a traditional Bedouin art that transforms wool into striking geometric patterns bursting with color and meaning.

The festival displays Sadu-inspired abayas, contemporary clothing, home décor and handcrafted accessories that honor the past while embracing modern design trends.

Rahaf and her sister Ohood, whose mother is a participating Sadu weaver, said their visit to Banan helped them appreciate the beauty, diversity and cultural significance of regional crafts.

They explained how women in earlier generations used limited resources to create clothing, tents and decorative items, proving their ingenuity and resilience—qualities still reflected in today’s artisans.

Ohood said that Banan reveals the rich variety of crafts found across Saudi Arabia, from Hail to Jouf and Madinah, each region bringing its own colors, symbols and techniques to the festival.

She encouraged visitors to explore the event, describing it as a meaningful experience that deepens understanding of national heritage while celebrating innovation.

Among the standout participants is Saudi artist Duha Akhdar from Al-Qatif, known for her intricate macrame and knot artistry inspired by old fishnets and maritime heritage.

Her work transforms simple rope into elegant hanging baskets, ornaments and decorative pieces, blending tradition with creativity in ways that resonate with visitors.

Akhdar uses tree branches—once integral elements of old homes—as bases for her macrame boats, carved with Arabic calligraphy and topped with beautifully knotted sails.

She has trained more than 600 individuals in macrame, including people with disabilities, making her art not only visually captivating but also socially uplifting.

Her interest in macrame began during her studies in Canada, where she observed how Mexican families preserved their knot-tying traditions across generations.

This inspired her to research Arab history, where she discovered similar techniques that date back centuries, encouraging her to revive and modernize the craft within Saudi Arabia.

Akhdar’s newer pieces include works inspired by the Kaaba, which she has presented to prominent Saudi leaders, reflecting her pride in cultural heritage and her desire to honor spiritual themes.

Her journey demonstrates how traditional crafts can evolve into meaningful art forms that strengthen cultural identity and inspire the next generation of makers.

The festival also welcomes global creators such as Georgia’s Nata Nikoleishvili, who, alongside her mother, produces handmade clothing using wool felting, natural dyes and plant-based prints.

Their participation highlights Banan’s international appeal and its mission to connect cultures through creativity, craftsmanship and shared artistic passion.

Saudi artist Afaf Dajam adds depth to the festival through her modern interpretations of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri, a regional art recognized by UNESCO for its cultural importance.

Her work explores the beauty of geometric wall designs traditionally created by women, blending history with contemporary artistic expression.

Dajam says Banan provides an inspiring environment where artists exchange ideas and learn from one another, discovering surprising similarities between Saudi crafts and those from India, Mexico and North Africa.

This exchange strengthens cultural appreciation and reinforces the universal language of creativity that binds artisans together across borders.

The evening featured live performances, interactive visual displays, and artistic discussions that reflected the growing cultural relationship between France and Saudi Arabia. It highlighted how art continues to serve as a universal language, bridging communities and fostering deeper understanding across cultures.

The French Consulate in Jeddah announced the formation of a new community of former artists-in-residence from the Cite Internationale des Arts in Paris. This initiative was supported by Saudi artists Zahra Bundakji and Danah Qari, alongside other well-known creative figures such as Joud Fahmy, Zahiyah Al-Raddadi, Bricklab, and Nour Gary.

French Consul General Mohamed Nehad described the program as a symbol of collaboration and artistic growth. He noted that many Saudi artists had previously taken part in French residencies, gaining new skills and international exposure. He emphasized that gatherings like Salon des Arts help reconnect these creative minds and strengthen their shared artistic journey.

He praised Saudi Arabia’s dynamic art scene, calling it vibrant, youthful, and full of inspiration. He highlighted how Saudi artists continue to energize the creative dialogue with their innovative ideas and bold expressions, enriching both local and international art landscapes.

Cultural attaché Quentin Richard expressed that the event embodied the ongoing artistic dialogue between the two nations. He explained that residencies in Paris and Jeddah create a continuous exchange built on creativity, respect, and mutual discovery. These opportunities, he said, strengthen ties between artists and encourage them to learn from one another’s experiences.

Adding to the event’s charm, the French musical group Oriki performed during the evening. The group, currently in residence at Hayy Cinema, collaborated with Saudi artist Salma Murad to deliver an emotionally charged performance that fused sound and storytelling.

Their vocalist, Woz Kaly, spoke about the powerful emotional bond formed with Jeddah’s artistic community. He said that their performance invited audiences to imagine cinematic scenes through music alone, encouraging them to feel and interpret stories in their own way.

The Salon also gave the public an intimate look into the creative process. Zahra Bundakji explained that most people see the finished artwork but rarely experience the journey behind it — the experiments, the failures, and the discoveries. She emphasized that art thrives in these unseen moments of creation and collaboration.

For her, the event was not just an exhibition but a living, breathing space for dialogue and connection. It allowed visitors to explore the emotional layers behind every artwork and interact directly with the artists who bring them to life.

Artist Danah Qari added that the event created a space for people to discuss how art reflects life — and how life, in turn, inspires art. She described it as a platform where feelings, stories, and personal experiences merge into creative expression.

The Salon des Arts demonstrated how artistic gatherings can nurture empathy, inspire imagination, and strengthen international friendships. Through every painting, performance, and conversation, the event showcased the unifying power of art and its ability to connect hearts across borders.

As new artistic residencies prepare to begin in December in collaboration with the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum and Athr Gallery, the partnership between France and Saudi Arabia continues to grow stronger. Salon des Arts stands as a symbol of cultural unity — a reminder that creativity knows no boundaries and that true art is born where different worlds meet in harmony.

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.

The discussions marked a significant step in strengthening international cultural exchange and fostering creative partnerships between the two nations.

The Royal Commission for AlUla announced a landmark agreement to establish a Saudi section within the Center Pompidou in Paris, which is currently undergoing refurbishment.

The renovated museum is expected to reopen to the public in 2030, providing a dynamic platform to showcase Saudi contemporary art and culture alongside international works.

Under this partnership, the RCU will contribute 50 million euros to support the renovation of the Center Pompidou, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to promoting global art and culture.

This collaboration is part of a broader Saudi-French initiative to develop the Museum of Contemporary Art in AlUla, located in the western Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia.

The new museum will serve as a hub for artistic innovation, providing a space where local, regional, and international artists can showcase their work, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects.

By creating this bridge between Paris and AlUla, the initiative strengthens cultural ties and encourages dialogue across borders.

The partnership will also establish a multi-year cultural and artistic program running until 2030, focusing on modern and contemporary Saudi artists.

By using resources from the Center Pompidou, the program will facilitate professional exchanges between Saudi and French cultural experts, offering opportunities for skill development, mentorship, and creative collaboration.

This initiative aims to highlight Saudi Arabia’s vibrant contemporary art scene while promoting sustainable cultural development.

RCU emphasized that culture serves as a bridge for international dialogue and plays a key role in advancing sustainable development.

By investing in global artistic institutions and fostering cross-cultural initiatives, Saudi Arabia is positioning AlUla as a leading destination for creativity and innovation.

The collaboration also underlines the importance of sharing knowledge, celebrating heritage, and promoting arts education, both locally and internationally.

In addition to the Center Pompidou partnership, RCU announced the Arduna exhibition, which will take place during the AlUla Arts Festival in January 2026.

Organized in collaboration with Arts AlUla, the Center Pompidou, and the French Agency for AlUla Development, the exhibition will feature workshops, live performances, and programs designed to support emerging talent.

Arduna will showcase contemporary Saudi artistic expression while providing an immersive cultural experience for visitors.

Prince Bader highlighted the importance of building AlUla’s reputation as a global hub for creativity, where heritage, innovation, and knowledge intersect.

The city has been rapidly developing its cultural and artistic infrastructure, hosting world-class events and exhibitions, and nurturing emerging talent.

Through initiatives such as the Pompidou partnership and the Arduna exhibition, AlUla is emerging as a center for inspiration, attracting artists, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world.

The collaboration also reflects a shared commitment between Saudi Arabia and France to promote culture as a tool for dialogue, understanding, and peace.

By fostering international artistic exchanges, both countries are demonstrating that art can transcend borders and create opportunities for mutual learning and inspiration.

Through this landmark agreement, Saudi Arabia is not only supporting the global arts community but also enriching its own cultural landscape.

AlUla’s transformation into a vibrant center for contemporary art is a testament to the Kingdom’s vision of blending heritage with modern creativity.

The initiative promises to inspire future generations of artists, strengthen international partnerships, and solidify Saudi Arabia’s role on the world stage as a leader in cultural innovation.

With the reopening of the Center Pompidou in Paris and the development of AlUla’s contemporary art museum, this partnership signals a bright future for artistic collaboration, cross-cultural exchange, and global creative growth.