A Celebration of Identity and History

The Heritage Commission Celebrates World Heritage Day at Laysen Valley

On April 18, the heart of Riyadh pulsed with the echoes of the past and the energy of a city looking forward. Hosted by the Heritage Commission, the World Heritage Day celebration at Laysen Valley transformed one of Riyadh’s most elegant lifestyle destinations into a live tribute to the Kingdom’s cultural legacy—blending tradition, innovation, and immersive storytelling.

With its palm-lined promenades and neoclassical architecture, Laysen Valley became the perfect stage for a multi-sensory journey through Saudi Arabia’s rich tapestry of heritage. Guests were invited to experience more than just history—they were welcomed into a living archive.

Culture in Motion

The open-air event unfolded across beautifully staged zones that celebrated Saudi Arabia’s UNESCO-recognized heritage—from the ancient Nabataean city of Hegra to the At-Turaif District in Diriyah, all brought to life through interactive displays, music, craft, and light installations.

In place of museum glass, there were conversations. In place of silence, song. Artisans demonstrated centuries-old skills in textile making, pottery, and architectural ornamentation, while musicians and storytellers gave voice to local oral traditions. The result was an environment that felt curated, yet unfiltered—authentic, atmospheric, and deeply moving.

A Public Square for Private Memory

In a city known for its fast pace and future-forward outlook, the event offered something rare: space for reflection. Families walked together beneath towering lanterns inspired by Najdi motifs. Young creatives documented the installations, capturing a vision of heritage not as nostalgia—but as foundation.

The activation was also a reminder of the role design and architecture play in preserving identity. From the layout of Laysen Valley’s plaza to the elegant heritage-inspired graphics lining the event zones, the aesthetic dialogue between old and new was both subtle and powerful.

Why It Mattered

In a world where culture is increasingly globalized and digitized, World Heritage Day at Laysen Valley reminded Riyadh residents and visitors of the specificity—and beauty—of place. The event’s success reflects the Kingdom’s broader commitment to cultural preservation and innovation, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030 and the growing recognition of Saudi heritage on the world stage.

About the Heritage Commission

Established under the Ministry of Culture, the Heritage Commission is entrusted with the preservation, development, and promotion of Saudi Arabia’s diverse cultural heritage. Its mission is to safeguard the Kingdom’s tangible and intangible assets—from ancient archaeological sites and architecture to oral traditions, crafts, and customs—ensuring they remain accessible, appreciated, and alive for generations to come.

At the core of the Commission’s vision is the belief that heritage is not static, but living—something to be experienced, reinterpreted, and woven into the modern fabric of Saudi society. By supporting restoration initiatives, community engagement, academic research, and immersive public programming like World Heritage Day, the Commission plays a vital role in embedding cultural legacy into the Kingdom’s future-facing identity.

Through partnerships with UNESCO, local communities, and cultural institutions, the Heritage Commission continues to elevate Saudi Arabia’s global cultural footprint while cultivating a deep, everyday connection between citizens and their heritage.

For The Riyadh Edit, it wasn’t just a heritage celebration. It was a glimpse into the city’s future—rooted in tradition, rich in identity, and ready to be shared.

📍 World Heritage Day 2025

Now through April 21st

Presented by the Heritage Commission

Location: Laysen Valley, Riyadh