Flamenco Meets Desert: Gipsy Kings Return to AlUla with Guy Manoukian
The Grammy-winning Gipsy Kings will once again ignite Saudi Arabia’s cultural stage, with a stunning headline performance in AlUla in early 2026, according to Arab News.
Gipsy Kings
The performance will bring their intoxicating fusion of flamenco, rumba, and Latin rhythms to the architectural marvel of Maraya.
With over 20 million albums sold worldwide, the Gipsy Kings stand as icons of world music. Their self-titled 1987 release became a cultural phenomenon, securing gold and platinum certifications in several countries and holding a place on US charts for an impressive 40 weeks.
They also gifted audiences enduring classics like “Bamboleo,” “Djobi Djoba,” and “Un Amor.”
Guy Manoukian
Guy Manoukian, the Lebanese-Armenian pianist and composer whose piano fuses Middle Eastern tradition with modern soundscapes, will share the stage with the Gipsy Kings.
Manoukian has commanded stages at some of the world’s most iconic venues — from the Sydney Opera House to the London Palladium and the Paris Olympia.
The pianist has also shared the spotlight with global stars such as Wyclef Jean, 50 Cent, and his longtime collaborators, the Gipsy Kings.
The concert comes on the heels of Wael Kfoury’s December 19 appearance at Maraya.
Winter at Tantora Festival
Currently, AlUla is also hosting Winter at Tantora Festival, marking the beginning of the winter season, with a dynamic program showcasing the region’s rich agricultural legacy and ancient history.
The 2025–2026 edition features a diverse lineup of immersive experiences that underscore AlUla’s relationship with time, land, and community.
“Old Town Nights” offers an evocative evening journey blending heritage storytelling with refined dining at the historic AlUla Fort.
Meanwhile, the AlManshiyah Carnival introduces a series of traditional games, colorful parades, and festive performances.
The “Shorfat Tantora” also brings live performances to the rooftops of the AlJadidah Arts District, blending music with sweeping views of the historic landscape.
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