Diriyah Season 24-25: A Convergence of History, Culture and Arts
Diriyah Season has returned with a new edition stacked with exhilarating cultural experiences that highlight the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia’s birthplace.
The Diriyah Season 2024-2025 kicked off on Friday, December 20, 2024. Under the theme Entertain Your Cultural Curiosity, Diriyah Season 24-25 brings an array of immersive events and experiences that celebrate the region’s culture and heritage.
Diriyah Season Breaking Records
Running from December 20, 2024 to March 15, 2025, the Diriyah Season is expected to draw a large turnout of visitors. Inaugurating the grand event, the CEO of the Diriyah Company, Jerry Inzerillo, said: “We anticipate welcoming three million visitors to At-Turaif district, the birthplace of the Kingdom, by Founding Day on February 22, 2025.”
Moreover, Inzerillo said that the Diriyah Season is breaking records with regards to the number of visitors. “We are breaking records in visitor numbers and forming numerous partnerships for ground and tour operations, with new flights already arriving from countries like China. The international presence in Bujairi is evident every night, making it one of the world’s premier gathering spots,” he noted.
The City of Earth
Diriyah, known as the City of Earth, boasts a unique status for all Saudis. It is the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the hometown of Al Saud family. With its rich history and heritage, it symbolizes the Saudi cultural identity and is a source of national pride.
Diriyah served as the capital of the First Saudi State in the 18th century. Today, it is a core element in the Kingdom’s plans to establish itself as a global cultural hub. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif, Diriayh is set to emerge as the linchpin of culture, innovation, and contemporary creativity.
Reviving Second Saudi State
Diriyah Season 24-25 features a variety of events and activities across more than 5 venues within Diriyah. These events aim to immerse visitors in a unique cultural experience that combine artistic expressions with entertainment.
The Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Exhibition honors the legacy of the founder of the Second Saudi State, by narrating his inspiring story. The exhibition is running until December 31st, at AlBujairi Terrace.
Visitors are invited to an impressive journey through the glorious achievements of Imam Turki bin Adbullah, exploring how he shaped history by reclaiming the land of Diriyah and restored the legacy of his ancestors 200 years ago.
Diriyah Timeless Stories
The one-of-a-kind Minzal experience returns in a second edition that delves deeper into the vibrant cultural and historical essence of Diriyah, while showcasing the charming natural beauty of the place.
Visitors have the chance to immerse in fascinating art installations that tell the stories of the past, against the backdrop of captivating traditional musical performances.
The Minzal experience offers a variety of activities, from discovering the old local markets to stargazing under the glowing skies amid the awe-inspiring mountain views. Hence, visitors can go camping, engage in interactive cultural workshops, try horseback riding, and enjoy various dining options and recreational activities.
Diriyah Season Interactive Experiences
At Diriyah Season 24-25, visitors can take part in the 850 Interactive Experiences. This amazing event brings the rich history of Diriyah back to life, highlighting the stories of inspirational figures.
In an unparalleled historical adventure, visitors embark on an extraordinary journey through the history of Diriyah, exploring the legacies of the significant figures of both the First and Second Saudi States in both indoor and outdoor interactive settings.
Layali Diriyah
In its fourth edition, Layali Diriyah offers innovative experiences that indulge visitors in a world of delight and luxury. Visitors can experience fine dining, daily cultural showcases, in addition to luxury shopping.
This unique experience features retail zones that display world-class brands, as well as diverse culinary options with a variety of dishes that carry distinct flavors and tastes.
Cultural Festivities
The Diriyah Season celebrates all aspects of Saudi Arabia’s rich culture. At the TYN Festival, architects, academics, enthusiasts, as well as the public come together to get a closer look at the traditional Najdi architecture of the region.
The TYN (clay) Festival provides a platform for learning, discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and entertainment activities that focus on clay-based art installations and traditional architectural elements.
Moreover, the big season features the Diriyah Storytelling Festival that celebrates literature and promotes cultural exchange. The event brings together novelists and literature lovers, hosts various workshops and exhibitions, in addition to hosting a variety of entertainment zones.
Another experience that blends tradition with modernity is the Bujairi Terrace. Inspired by Diriyah’s history, the Bujairi Terrace offers art workshops on Arabic calligraphy and Najdi patterns.
Furthermore, Diriyah Season celebrates the traditional art of Samri at various locations throughout the season. It also features diverse cultural programs, activities, and restaurants that offer a variety of local and international cuisines which cater to the needs of all visitors.
