AlUla Arts Festival 2024 Returns with Expanded Programme and Major Commissions

The fourth AlUla Arts Festival has commenced in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, and will continue until 22 February 2025. This event revitalizes the oasis city through various performances, exhibitions, and activities, showcasing both Saudi and international talents. Notable exhibitions include James Turrell at Wadi AlFann (16 Jan–19 Apr), curated by Michael Govan from LACMA; Maha Malluh's 'Reminiscence' (16 Jan–19 Apr); Tarek Atoui's 'Bayt Al Hams' (16 Jan–16 Apr); and 'Raw to Revival' at Design Space AlUla (16 Jan–19 Apr). Additionally, 'Al Khatt' (16 Jan–22 Feb) highlights Arabic calligraphy, featuring artists like Ghaleb Hawila and Wissam Shawkat. 'NEUMA – The Forgotten Ceremony' (12 Dec–27 Feb) by Sarah Brahim and Ugo Schiavi represents Villa Hegra. 'Alamaat' (until 26 Mar), curated by Salma Al Khalidi, marks the German Archaeological Institute's 20th anniversary in Saudi Arabia with works by Daniah Alsaleh and Susanne Kriemann. The AlUla Artist Residencies Open Studios will take place on 22 Feb, showcasing six artists. 'Thikra: Night of Remembering' (25–27 Jan), featuring 14 dancers, is presented by Akram Khan and Manal AlDowayan. Ayman Zedani will deliver a lecture performance titled 'To the Eagles' on 29 Jan and 18 Feb. This festival is part of the AlUla Moments Season, organized by the Royal Commission for AlUla. Nora Aldabal, Executive Director of Arts & Creative Industries, emphasized that the festival aims to establish AlUla as a global hub for cultural exchange.