Riyadh International Jazz Festival debuts in Saudi capital

Saudi Arabia's capital hosted its first Riyadh International Jazz Festival from February 7 to 9, 2024, at the Mayadeen Theatre in Diriyah. The three-night event featured international artists including The Cat Empire, YolanDa Brown, Chaka Khan, Kokoroko, Hiatus Kaiyote, and Masego, alongside regional acts Fulana, Majaz, and Garwasha. The festival is produced by the Saudi Music Commission, established in 2020 under the Ministry of Culture as part of the Saudi Vision 2030 plan to diversify the economy through entertainment and tourism. Live concerts and entertainment were only legalized in 2017, with women permitted to perform since 2018. Paul Pacifico, CEO of the Saudi Music Commission, stated the goal is to support the growing local music sector and position Riyadh as an emerging global music hub. The festival coincided with cultural attractions in Riyadh, including the UNESCO World Heritage site At-Turaif in Diriyah, the JAX contemporary art district, and exhibitions such as Refracted Identities, Shared Futures at Riyadh Art museum and YSA-On purpose at ATHR Foundation. The second Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale is scheduled to open February 20, 2024, featuring Italian artist Rossella Biscotti.