Along the untouched coastline of the Red Sea, AMAALA is shaping a new vision of ultra luxury travel in Saudi Arabia. AMAALA is a destination guided by regeneration, heritage, and the preservation of one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. Every experience is rooted in a sense of place, honoring the story of the land and inviting guests to discover its depth with clarity and wonder. From the moment visitors arrive, they are immersed in the living history of the region. More than eight hundred archaeological sites have been uncovered across AMAALA, each one a link to a past shaped by trade, pilgrimage, and community. Ancient Nabataean routes, stone forts, and wells once used by travelers on their way to Makkah reveal a sophisticated and enduring human presence. These sites form the cultural foundation of the destination, and many will be opened through guided nature walks, storytelling tours, and curated explorations that allow guests to connect with centuries of history. As the land reveals itself, a second story emerges through the wadis that weave across the destination. These desert valleys are vibrant ecosystems supported by native trees such as miswack and acacia. Some of these ancient trees have stood for hundreds of years and continue to sustain foxes, migratory birds, and pollinators. More than two hundred and sixty plant species have been recorded, creating a terrain that feels both raw and full of life. AMAALA presents these landscapes as places of reflection, inviting guests to understand the quiet energy of the desert and the beauty that thrives within it. The coastline adds another dimension to this world. The Red Sea is home to endangered green and hawksbill turtles that return to the same beaches to nest. The marine environment includes more than one hundred and seventy coral species, lush mangrove forests, and protected seagrass meadows that support the health of the sea. Guests will encounter these natural wonders with care and respect through boardwalks that protect delicate root systems and through curated experiences that preserve nesting grounds and essential habitats. To deepen the understanding of these fragile ecosystems, AMAALA introduces Corallium, the world’s first immersive Marine Life Institute. The three level experience invites exploration through shimmering curved habitats filled with fish, wave like walls that evoke seagrass, and interactive displays where children and adults can observe sea cucumbers, hermit crabs, and starfish. Corallium brings the underwater world into clear view and sparks a meaningful connection to the Red Sea, encouraging visitors to appreciate and protect it. Both land and sea shape the adventure at AMAALA. Guests can dive into the Red Sea with Galaxea, the destination’s dedicated diving center, or explore the water through WAMA’s curated sports and coastal activities. Inland, Akun opens paths to trails, stargazing, and cultural encounters that reveal the spirit of the region. Each experience is designed to transform exploration into personal discovery, turning every moment into a meaningful memory of Saudi Arabia’s landscapes and traditions. As AMAALA prepares to welcome its first guests, it is already redefining the future of luxury travel in the Kingdom. The destination celebrates heritage, protects ecosystems, and introduces a new model of purposeful hospitality. It reflects a country proud of its natural treasures and deeply committed to safeguarding them. Through thoughtful design and transformative experiences, AMAALA stands as a testament to the beauty of the Red Sea and the cultural richness of Saudi Arabia.

Where performance becomes a lifestyle and wellness becomes a world shaped by calm tones and sculptural design Technogym has opened its new headquarters and boutique in Riyadh, marking a significant moment for the global wellness leader as it deepens its presence in the Middle East. The new space brings the brand’s world of fitness, sport, and health into a refined environment created for both consumers and industry professionals. It is an invitation to experience the full expression of Technogym design, innovation, and digital intelligence in a city that is rapidly shaping its own health and wellness culture. Set within a contemporary building, the new Technogym Riyadh combines a headquarters and a boutique under one roof. It becomes a home for the brand’s community, a place where visitors can explore advanced equipment, digital ecosystems, and personalized training solutions. It also serves as a meeting point for discussion, education, and exchange across health, sports science, and preventative wellness. The boutique offers a considered path for consumers to understand how Technogym can elevate a personal training space at home. Guests can try equipment, learn about digital programs, and work with experienced personal trainers and interior designers on bespoke home gym concepts. The approach reflects the brand’s philosophy of Precision Training, a fully personalized method shaped by individual goals, passions, and lifestyle. Whether the aim is athletic performance, weight management, wellness, or the joy of movement, the experience is curated around the person rather than the program. For professionals, industry operators, and trainers, the new headquarters functions as an educational and consulting hub. It supports fitness clubs, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, hospitality groups, sports centers, and real estate developers who seek to collaborate with Technogym on future forward wellness concepts. The space will also host seminars and workshops that explore digital technologies, performance solutions, and the training innovations adopted by the world’s leading teams and athletes. The opening also introduces Sand Stone, the newest Technogym interior collection created for exclusive wellness spaces. The aesthetic is warm, textured, and deeply contemporary. It blends natural tones with refined materials to create a soft visual presence that complements both private homes and hospitality environments. Sand Stone brings together authenticity and innovation, reflecting a growing global desire for wellness spaces that feel both functional and calming. Technogym continues to stand as one of the most influential wellness brands in the world. Its Italian design language, advanced engineering, and digital intelligence shape a portfolio that is present across elite gyms, private members clubs, luxury hotels, and the homes of global athletes. The company has served as the Official Supplier of the Olympic Games since two thousand, a role that reinforces its expertise at the highest levels of sport. Founded by Nerio Alessandri in nineteen eighty three, Technogym now operates in more than one hundred countries and supports millions of people each day through its integrated ecosystem. The brand’s commitment to a holistic philosophy of wellness extends from product design to digital services and interior architecture, always reflecting the belief that movement, nutrition, and a positive mindset are essential elements of a balanced life. With the launch of its Riyadh headquarters and boutique, Technogym strengthens its bond with the region and brings a fresh vision of wellness to the Kingdom. The new space is more than a destination. It is a modern reflection of how fitness, design, and technology can come together to shape a healthier and more inspired way of living.

An iconic gathering that honors the legacy of the Arabian Purebred and the culture that shaped it Abu Dhabi prepares for a moment of grandeur as the Abu Dhabi Turf Club hosts the thirty third running of the President of the UAE Cup for Arabian Purebred Horses on December six. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the event stands at the heart of the club’s twenty twenty five to twenty twenty six season and remains one of the most distinguished fixtures in the Arabian racing world. The President of the UAE Cup is recognised internationally for its record prize fund, its history, and its roster of extraordinary competitors. This year’s Group One race will take place over two thousand two hundred metres and will gather elite jockeys and the finest Arabian Purebred horses. The total prize purse of ten point eight million dirhams reflects the prestige of the occasion and affirms its status as the richest night of the Abu Dhabi Turf Club calendar. Alongside the feature race, the programme includes the Group Three Yass Sprint, the UAE Breeders Cup, and the Abu Dhabi Derby, creating a full evening of high calibre sport that attracts devoted followers from around the world. The legacy of the Cup traces back to nineteen ninety four when the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan inaugurated its first edition. His vision set the foundation for a competition designed to honour the heritage of the Arabian horse, celebrate the breed’s unmatched qualities, and preserve a vital cultural tradition. The Cup stands today as a continuation of this mission and reflects the profound connection between the UAE and its equestrian identity. His Excellency Eng. Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club and Abu Dhabi Turf Club, expressed his appreciation for the ongoing support of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He affirmed that this leadership has strengthened the presence of the Arabian Purebred on a global stage, reinforcing the importance of the breed and safeguarding its legacy. He shared a sentiment of pride in hosting the President of the UAE Cup each year and noted its symbolic role in representing the values and heritage of the Emirati people. Beyond the racing, the evening promises an inspiring cultural programme that celebrates Emirati tradition in contemporary and engaging ways. Visitors will find an array of thoughtfully curated experiences. Children between the ages of six and twelve, from all nationalities, are invited to participate in an Emirati National Dress Competition with cash prizes awarded to six winners. Photography enthusiasts are encouraged to capture the spirit of the event through the UAE President Cup Photo Competition, with a significant prize for the winning image. Immersive installations across the venue deepen the connection to heritage. A jalsa inspired by the floral motifs of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque offers a serene artistic space. An Al Arish traditional Emirati hut will host craft workshops and feature handmade pieces from Al Ghadeer, while a photoworthy installation pays tribute to the enduring traditions of the nation. Guests can anticipate a culinary journey presented by Strawfire, the premium dining restaurant from Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. The menu has been curated especially for the event and anchors the evening with refined flavours and attentive service. A series of live performances rooted in Emirati heritage will bring rhythm and movement to the atmosphere. The celebrations will conclude with a spectacular drone show that lights the sky with a moving spectacle of shapes and colour. The President of the UAE Cup continues to maintain its place at the forefront of Arabian Purebred racing. Through sport, culture, and hospitality, the event reinforces Abu Dhabi’s standing as a global destination for equestrian excellence and honours a tradition that remains central to the identity of the UAE.

A Journey of Shared Heritage and Scented Memory By Dani O'Connor, Editor in Chief All photos by Benjamin de Fracia There are moments when a journey feels less like travel and more like a return to something familiar. Our recent media trip with Amouage to AlUla carried that feeling from the moment we arrived. The Omani fragrance house has long been known for its deep sense of identity. Its connection to heritage has always been more than a theme. It is a way of seeing the world. This made AlUla the perfect setting for their newest cultural chapter amongst VIPs, dignitaries, and top tier media. All photos by Benjamin de Fracia Amouage arrived in AlUla to celebrate something meaningful. The brand joined the Royal Commission for AlUla as the fragrance sponsor of the Incense Road Experience, a multisensory installation that honors the ancient trade routes linking Arabia to the wider world. The story of the Incense Road is also the story of Oman and Saudi Arabia, two lands shaped by the movement of caravans, culture and perfume. Frankincense from Dhofar. Myrrh from the southern deserts. Aromatics that once traveled through AlUla before finding their way across continents. Amouage carries these stories in every creation. Seeing the house return to this landscape felt profound. All photos by Benjamin de Fracia The visit began with a private tour of the Incense Road Experience, accompanied by the leadership of Amouage. The Chairman, Sayyid Khalid bin Hamad Al Busaidi, spoke with a sense of calm authority that reflects the house’s long standing reputation. The Chief Executive Officer, Marco Parsiegla, shared reflections on cultural partnership and the responsibility that comes with representing the region’s heritage on a global stage. Creative Director Renaud Salmon brought a quiet curiosity to each space, pausing at details that others might miss. Together they represented three perspectives that define Amouage: legacy, leadership and imagination. All photos by Benjamin de Fracia Walking through the installation felt like moving through time. Light, sound and scent carried us across centuries. The desert became a living archive of the trade networks that once shaped Arabia. Every fragrance note in the air held a memory of something older than the moment itself. There was a feeling of reverence, as if the landscape invited visitors to listen first before interpreting anything at all. The signing ceremony between Amouage and the Royal Commission for AlUla took place shortly after. The agreement formalized a partnership built on authenticity and shared cultural values. It was an acknowledgment that fragrance is not merely an accessory. It is a storyteller. In AlUla, it becomes a bridge between Oman and Saudi Arabia, two cultures connected by scent, movement and history. All photos by Benjamin de Fracia As evening arrived, the desert shifted into something intimate and beautiful. Amouage hosted an exclusive dinner at The Chedi Hegra where candlelight reflected off sandstone walls that have stood for thousands of years. The atmosphere was serene. Music floated in the air with the softness of a whispered memory. Every course carried the influence of AlUla’s natural landscape, turning the meal into a continuation of the day’s narrative. Later, guests gathered for a concert staged in front of Hegra. The monument stood illuminated, its quiet presence towering above the crowd. The performance marked the opening of the Ancient Kingdoms Festival of AlUla, a celebration that honors the region’s cultural legacy. The combination of music, history and desert air created a moment that felt suspended in time. It was impossible not to reflect on how deeply fragrance is tied to place. Standing beneath the stars, surrounded by the powerful stillness of Hegra, the collaboration between Amouage and AlUla found its fullest expression. All photos by Benjamin de Fracia This media trip revealed something essential about Amouage. The house understands that luxury is at its most meaningful when it carries memory, purpose and connection. Its story is rooted in Oman, yet it speaks naturally to the landscape of Saudi Arabia. Both places share an ancient history shaped by perfume. Both hold traditions that continue to influence contemporary creativity. And both are stepping into a future defined by cultural ambition and global visibility. All photos by Benjamin de Fracia In AlUla, Amouage honored the past while creating something new. The partnership felt less like an announcement and more like a continuation of a long and scented conversation between two cultures. It is a reminder that heritage is not static. It is alive and always becoming something more.

Golf, culture, and the spirit of competition come together at Riyadh Golf Club Images courtesy of PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers Riyadh Golf Club felt alive this week as the 2025 PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers returned for its seventh edition and its second year in the capital. The tournament arrives as part of the WOW Festival during Riyadh Season, a celebration that blends golf, cars, and entertainment into one dynamic experience. The atmosphere is festive and the field is stacked with some of the biggest names in the sport. This year’s tournament feels larger in scope and deeper in competitive strength. The numbers tell their own story. Seven major winners with nine titles between them. Forty six Asian Tour winners with more than a hundred victories. All of the top ten players on the Asian Tour Order of Merit. Eighteen LIV Golf winners with thirty three titles. Thirty three nationalities represented. Five past champions. A record group of seven Saudi players teeing it up on home ground: Othman Al Mulla, Saud Al Sharif, Shergo Al Kurdi, Khalid Attieh, Faisal Salhab, Prince Khalid Saud Al Faisel, and Khalid Alqunaibit. For fans, the competition is magnetic. For Saudi golf, it is a milestone. Returning champions and rising voices Defending champion Joaquin Niemann arrived confident and calm, reflecting on the form he brings into the week. “I feel like the game is in a good spot. I feel like I am working in the right direction,” he said, crediting the changes he has made to his team and the support surrounding him. He was equally struck by the improvements to the course. “I want to congratulate what Golf Saudi has made on the improvements on this golf course. The conditions are unbelievable,” he said. The greens are rolling true and the rough is longer, adding a new layer of challenge. The conditions hint at a week where precision will matter and momentum may shift quickly. Niemann also spoke about the new energy around the event, shaped by the WOW Festival and Riyadh Season. He noted how the experience blends families, newcomers, and golf fans through concerts, car showcases, and festival programming. “Golf is a pretty new sport for them here. Bringing in all the fans, making it a festival, car shows, I feel like it is going to bring a similar crowd that golf needs,” he said. Familiar champions return Two time champion Dustin Johnson, a player who always draws attention, kept his assessment simple. “I have still got a lot of work to do. But I am seeing a lot of good signs,” he said. His presence alone adds weight to the field and the crowd response each year reminds everyone how popular he remains in Saudi Arabia. Harold Varner III, the 2022 champion, praised the conditions with characteristic ease. “It is in great shape,” he said. “They have done a terrific job of always improving every time we get here.” A big week for the home players For the Saudi players, this event carries pride and possibility. Riyadh native Saud Al Sharif spoke openly about what the week means to him. “I am very excited. It is the seventh event and the sixth time I have played here. Now that it is in Riyadh, it is even bigger for me,” he said. With family, friends, and a growing home crowd behind him, he sees this moment as a chance to show the city what the future of Saudi golf looks like. For Faisal Salhab and the rest of the Saudi contingent, the opportunity to compete alongside major winners and global stars is both challenge and inspiration. Their presence reflects the rapid development of the sport in the Kingdom and the investment in nurturing a generation of homegrown competitors. A tournament that reflects a new era As Riyadh Golf Club hosts once again, the sense of momentum is clear. The field is deep. The course is in pristine condition. The festival atmosphere opens golf to wider audiences. And with a record seven Saudi players in the field, this edition feels like a moment that will shape the next chapter of the sport’s growth in the Kingdom. The PIF Saudi International is more than a championship. It is a snapshot of ambition, talent, and a city that continues to expand what sporting excellence can look like.

A Night Where Sound Met Style In a luminous evening at Kimpton KAFD Riyadh, Saudi singer-songwriter Tamtam took the stage to celebrate the release of her latest album Ma’asalama Side B . The hotel that welcomed her is itself a signal of new beginnings, the first Kimpton in the Middle East and the first lifestyle hotel in the heart of KAFD. Bridging worlds through music Tamtam grew up in Saudi Arabia and now works between Riyadh and Los Angeles, positioning herself at the intersection of cultures, languages and sound. Her music weaves Arabic and English, pop and poetry, identity and emotion always grounded in her values of empowerment and creative freedom. For MA’asalama Side B, she invited listeners into a space where goodbye carries many resonances not just a parting but transformation. Her rich voice and evocative lyrics build on past works while charting new, intimate terrain. Audiences at the Kimpton event savoured the live debut in a hotel lounge that felt at once private and vivid. Kimpton KAFD: A statement of place Kimpton KAFD Riyadh arrived as a milestone for the region. With 212 rooms, four unique dining venues, an outdoor pool deck and event spaces crafted with personality, the hotel marks Kimpton’s first foray into the Middle East. Situated in the King Abdullah Financial District, the hotel anchors Riyadh’s vision for blended resort-style luxury and urban lifestyle. Choosing this venue for Tamtam’s album launch was a considered move. The space mirrors her artistic mission: design-forward, cross-cultural, and unafraid to tell a story. The atmosphere of the evening, gleaming yet relaxed, intimate yet grand, made the hotel feel like a curated universe rather than a simple backdrop. The performance and the moment As Tamtam emerged on stage, the lounge dimmed and turned into an amphitheatre of mood and presence. Her set included tracks from the new album alongside signature songs that have defined her journey. With lighting that cast soft silhouettes, and an audience close enough to feel the impact of each lyric, the room felt electric with purpose. She spoke to her audience between songs about what MA’asalama Side B means to her: a reflection, a farewell, a promise of what comes next. And in this hotel venue, surrounded by luxury hospitality, the moment felt timely. Her music touched on heritage and modernity; her stage presence was grounded yet expansive. Why this matters For Tamtam, the performance signalled more than an album launch. It was a statement of identity: Saudi, global, unbound. For Kimpton KAFD Riyadh, hosting the event underscored its role as more than accommodation. It is a destination for culture, creativity and community. In Riyadh’s fast-evolving creative ecosystem, moments like this map a convergence between hospitality, lifestyle and artistic expression. A luxury hotel opens its doors to music that speaks across borders. An artist reclaims a narrative built on cross-cultural language. The city watches, listens and welcomes both. The takeaway The night closed with applause that lingered not so much for a single song but for a shared experience. Tamtam and Kimpton KAFD Riyadh continue to define what modern luxury and artistic voice look like in this moment. The album still has journeys ahead. The hotel still has stories to anchor. And the Kingdom continues to build the spaces where both can meet.

Empower, Engage, Sustain – Women Leading Initiatives The energy in Riyadh this November carried a quiet confidence. Within the halls of Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, women from around the world came together to share ideas, stories, and ambitions. Voices met with purpose. Conversations turned into collaboration. Under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Noura bint Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Creative Women Forum Saudi Arabia 2025 returned for its second edition under the theme “Empower • Engage • Sustain – Women Leading Initiatives.”  The event has grown into a living movement that reflects the Kingdom’s ongoing transformation and its investment in creativity, leadership, and dialogue. A forum of purpose Over three days, more than five hundred delegates gathered to exchange ideas and build connections. Leaders, innovators, and artists explored the links between creativity, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and technology, all framed by a shared belief that progress begins when imagination meets action. The forum became a place where leadership felt personal and creativity felt like responsibility. Each discussion offered a new perspective on how women across Saudi Arabia and the world are shaping a more connected and resilient future. The gala at the National Museum As the sun set over Riyadh, the National Museum of Saudi Arabia filled with light and celebration. The gala dinner and awards evening honored women whose influence continues to define the creative, scientific, and cultural landscapes. Guests were welcomed into a setting that felt both elegant and heartfelt, with performances by international artists adding moments of grace and reflection. In her remarks, Her Royal Highness Princess Noura described the evening as “a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and purpose.”  She spoke of the courage and imagination that drive progress and of the importance of bringing ideas to life with integrity and vision. Art as legacy The Forum concluded with the Creative Women Art Exhibition, curated by Rafael Porzycki and presented with the support of DHL Saudi Arabia. The exhibition was inspired by the Ministry of Culture’s Year of Handicrafts  initiative and featured works by Aida Murad, Saule Suleimenova, Sofia Cacciapaglia, Elisa Insua, Fatimah Al Nimr, and Olivia d’Aboville. Displayed across both Princess Nourah University and the National Museum, the exhibition blended contemporary art with heritage and craft. Proceeds supported the Herfa Cooperative Society, extending the forum’s message of empowerment beyond the walls of the event. A growing global movement Founded in London in 2016, the Creative Women Platform has become one of the world’s most active networks for women in leadership, innovation, and the arts. The Saudi edition added new dimension to that vision, creating bridges between cultures and industries while amplifying the role of women in shaping the future. As the forum came to a close, its message lingered: progress thrives in collaboration. When women come together to share knowledge, creativity becomes legacy.

Italian fashion’s global legacy and the visual poetry of Italian cinema In a beautifully curated dialogue between culture and craft, the L’Art Pur Foundation in Riyadh has opened two complementary exhibitions in collaboration with the Italian Embassy in Riyadh, titled Fashion Frames  and Passages of Light . These exhibitions present a layered reflection on Italian fashion’s global legacy and the visual poetry of Italian cinema through Saudi Arabia’s ever-expanding art scene. Why this matters for Riyadh The exhibition arrives at a moment when Riyadh itself is shaping new paths as a cultural capital, one that embraces international conversation while building its own creative identity. L’Art Pur has been a pioneer in this ecosystem, and by partnering with the Italian Embassy the gallery underscores the role of culture as bridge-builder. For visitors this is not simply a showcase of glamour and nostalgia. The dresses tell stories of cinema, of women who wore them, of ateliers behind the seams, of how fashion crossed borders. The photographs invite contemplation of the hidden frames behind motion pictures, of light as material, of moments frozen. In Riyadh’s world of rapid change, those stories feel timely and resonant. What you’ll feel when you walk in Entering the gallery you step into a space where haute-couture meets the pulse of Saudi Arabia. The hush of the halls, the spotlight on each garment, the low hum of dialogue from montage to metadata. You may sense how the curators are inviting you to look beyond surface beauty, to trace the craftsmanship, the cultural shifts, the intertwining of film and fashion. In one room you might see an Audrey Hepburn-era gown floating on mannequin, in the next a still from a Fellini set where light and shadow perform.These works are not relics. They are conversations. Riyadh, through them, becomes part of a narrative that spans Milan, Rome and now the desert capital. A moment of cross-cultural resonance According to the Italian Ambassador Carlo Baldocci , the exhibition reflects “the strong ties between our countries” and the potential of culture as diplomacy. The language of style here becomes a language of connection, of mutual aspiration. In a Kingdom ramping up its cultural infrastructure, this event stands as evidence of the power of exchange. The details you need to know Where:  L’Art Pur Foundation, Takhassusi Street, Riyadh. When:  From 11 November 2025 until 30 November 2025. What to see: Fashion Frames  – curated by Stefano Dominella and styled by Guillermo Mariotto, features around 45 historic couture dresses drawn from private and archival collections, including works by Valentino, Giorgio Armani, Romeo Gigli and more. Passages of Light  – a photographic journey by Mimmo Cattarinich, who spent decades capturing Italian film sets and icons. The works explore the border-line between illusion and memory, film and reality.

Noor Riyadh 2025 returns: the city after dark Riyadh is about to glow again. Noor Riyadh comes back for its fifth edition from 20 November to 6 December 2025, turning the capital into an open air gallery of light, sound, and scale. This year’s theme, In the Blink of an Eye, looks at speed, perception, and a city in motion. Expect more than sixty installations and performances that trace a path from the historic core to the new skyline. When and where Dates: 20 November to 6 December 2025 Daily timings: installations illuminate 6:00 pm to 1:00 am Citywide hubs: Qasr Al Hokm District, King Abdulaziz Historical Center, stc Metro Station, KAFD Station, Public Investment Fund Tower, and JAX District. The route intentionally links heritage streets, museum courtyards, the metro spine, and the financial district so visitors can experience the festival by foot and by train. The curatorial lens Noor Riyadh 2025 is shaped by an international team: Mami Kataoka of Mori Art Museum, Li Zhenhua of Beijing Art Lab, and Riyadh based curator Sara Almutlaq. Their brief invites artists to play with memory and speed, asking how a single instant can change how we read the city. A capsule in Venice previewed the curatorial approach ahead of the festival, drawing a straight line between Riyadh’s rapid transformation and contemporary light practice. What to expect on the ground The 2025 program brings around sixty artworks by fifty nine artists from twenty four countries, with more than thirty five new commissions. Names announced include Saad Al Howede, Monira Al Qadiri, Abdulrahman Al Soliman, James Clar, Ivana Franke, fuse*, Ayoung Kim, Shinji Ohmaki, Michelangelo Pistoletto, and Muhannad Shono. Expect projections, kinetic pieces, immersive corridors of light, and works that respond to wind, sound, and the flow of people through metro stations and plazas. A brief history Noor Riyadh launched in 2021 and has grown into the world’s largest light art festival under the Riyadh Art program. The third edition in 2023 was led by Jérôme Sans with a team of curators and stretched across five main sites including KAFD and JAX. The fourth edition in 2024, Light Years Apart, was curated by Dr Effat Abdullah Fadag and Dr Alfredo Cramerotti and logged new Guinness World Records while drawing millions of visits. The festival’s evolution tracks with Vision 2030 and with Riyadh Art’s mandate to seed public art across the city. Practical details for visitors Hours: plan your walk for 6:00 pm to 1:00 am when installations are lit. Weekday evenings are calmer, while weekends bring more buzz. Getting around: the stc and KAFD metro stations double as festival sites, so the train becomes part of the experience. Heritage sites and museum precincts host intimate works, while tower facades carry large scale pieces. Program beyond the works: expect talks, tours, and workshops produced by Riyadh Art and partners, designed to open the making process to students and families. Why this edition matters The theme asks us to pay attention to the instant. Riyadh is changing quickly. The curatorial team uses light to freeze a moment so audiences can notice texture, memory, and rhythm. The choice of locations bridges eras of the city, from the courts of Qasr Al Hokm to the glass of PIF Tower. The result is a map you can walk, a set of encounters after dark, and a portrait of a capital that treats public space as a studio.

Music Travel Love captures Shura Island in a cinematic performance that celebrates Saudi creativity and global connection A new rhythm has emerged along the shores of Shura Island. To celebrate the opening of the island at The Red Sea, the Canadian duo Music Travel Love collaborated with Saudi singers Zena Emad and Hamza Hawsawi to create a global music moment filmed at The Red Sea EDITION, the island’s first resort. Together, they reinterpreted the classic anthem Don’t Stop Believin’  through a live acoustic performance that blends Saudi instrumentation, soul and storytelling within the natural beauty of the destination. The collaboration transforms Shura Island into a stage where art and place come together, reflecting a creative spirit that defines a new era for Saudi Arabia. The performance is both intimate and cinematic, combining the power of music with a vision of connection and pride. A performance inspired by the land and sea Led by brothers Bob and Clint Moffatt, Music Travel Love has become known for performances that connect music to place. Their projects have taken them around the world, where they reimagine familiar songs within landscapes that evoke emotion and memory. Their work in Saudi Arabia marks the beginning of a new creative journey, one that brings together international artistry and Saudi talent under the title Music Travel Love and Friends . The video features the voices of Hamza Hawsawi and Zena Emad, joined by oud player Hazim Khamees and percussionist Kareem Quraish on darbuka. Each element reflects Saudi artistry, from styling by Koren Dasoar for Personage to custom designs by Not Boring by Yazeed Abahussein and jewelry by APOA (A Piece of Art) worn by Zena Emad. The result is more than a performance. It is a visual and musical portrait of modern Saudi creativity, confident in its voice and rooted in its environment. Voices behind the project “For us, this was about creating something that belonged to this moment, with these artists, in this place,” said Bob and Clint Moffatt. “We have filmed in many incredible locations around the world, but Shura Island offered a unique creative energy. Working alongside Saudi musicians gave the song new character through their voices and instruments.” “It was an absolute pleasure collaborating with Music Travel Love and Zena Emad,” said Hamza Hawsawi. “Performing together with the Red Sea as our backdrop was an experience I will never forget.” “This project allowed us to share a side of Saudi Arabia that people have not experienced before,” said Zena Emad. “Singing at the shoreline and blending our sound into a global song felt powerful and true. It was a proud moment for all of us.” A creative milestone for The Red Sea Music Travel Love last filmed in the region in Abu Dhabi, where their acoustic video set against the fossil dunes reached millions of viewers. Their move to The Red Sea represents a new chapter for the duo and for the destination, reflecting a place defined by imagination, vision and artistic possibility. The Red Sea EDITION now welcomes guests as the first resort on Shura Island, with SLS The Red Sea and InterContinental The Red Sea Resort opening later this year. Through 2026, the island will continue to grow with the arrival of Four Seasons, Fairmont, Grand Hyatt, Raffles, Rosewood, Jumeirah, Faena and Miraval, establishing it as one of the world’s most dynamic new destinations for design, hospitality and culture. Visitors can reach Shura Island through Red Sea International Airport, which offers direct flights from Riyadh, Jeddah, Dubai and Doha, along with easy access from major European cities. From there, guests cross Saudi Arabia’s longest overwater bridge to reach the island, entering a world shaped by sea, sky and creativity. Don’t Stop Believin’ by Music Travel Love and Friends at Shura Island, The Red Sea  is now live, marking a new chapter for Saudi artistry and global collaboration where sound, culture and place move in harmony. Watch the music video HERE .

Istituto Marangoni Riyadh hosts an engaging conversation on fashion education Riyadh welcomed a thoughtful exchange of ideas as Istituto Marangoni Riyadh hosted a panel discussion titled Designing the Future of Fashion in Saudi . The event gathered leading names from the fashion and education sectors to explore how learning, mentorship, and collaboration are redefining the Kingdom’s creative landscape. The conversation was led by fashion journalist and author Sujata Assomull, who moderated a panel featuring Ingie Chalhoub, Founder and President of Étoile Group and long-time mentor at Istituto Marangoni, Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Fashion Commission, and Anna Zinola, School and Education Director at Istituto Marangoni Riyadh. Together, they reflected on how education continues to anchor Saudi Arabia’s progress toward Vision 2030 and the creative economy it is building. A foundation for creative growth The panelists spoke about the importance of education as both a creative and economic force. They discussed how Istituto Marangoni’s presence in Riyadh is helping to equip young designers and entrepreneurs with the knowledge, technical ability, and confidence to thrive within an evolving global industry. The discussion highlighted the growing relationship between industry mentorship and education, and how this partnership will accelerate the professional development of Saudi talent. Chalhoub shared her perspective on nurturing emerging designers, emphasizing the power of guidance in shaping identity and skill. Cakmak outlined how the Fashion Commission continues to open pathways for Saudi creatives to gain access to opportunities, resources, and international exposure. The new creative classroom Located in King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), Istituto Marangoni Riyadh opened its doors in August 2025 with advanced training diplomas in Fashion Design, Fashion Management, Fashion Product, Fashion Communication & Image, and Fragrances & Cosmetics Management. Beginning in January, new professional courses will focus on subjects such as pattern cutting, retail management, visual merchandising, and digital design for fashion. The programs emphasize innovation, including the application of artificial intelligence within the design process. Through close collaboration with the Fashion Commission, the school aims to create a bridge between education and industry, linking Saudi students to an international network of mentors and professionals. The result is a curriculum that balances creative expression with business insight, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to the Kingdom’s growing fashion sector. A creative ecosystem in motion Saudi Arabia’s creative economy is rapidly expanding, with projections that the sector will contribute 2.6 percent to GDP by 2025 and generate more than 340,000 jobs. As the country invests in both infrastructure and talent, education remains the foundation on which this creative ecosystem will continue to grow. For Istituto Marangoni Riyadh, Designing the Future of Fashion in Saudi  marked more than a discussion. It represented a shared belief that learning, mentorship, and collaboration will shape the next generation of Saudi designers who are ready to lead on a global stage.

Saudi Arabia’s fashion ecosystem just gained another anchor partnership. The Saudi Fashion Association has announced an agreement with CATALOG Models, a Riyadh-based agency, signaling a practical step toward building a robust pipeline for modeling, casting, and runway operations in the Kingdom. While formal terms are not yet public, the move aligns with the Association’s mandate to strengthen collaboration, professionalize the sector, and create clear on-ramps for Saudi creatives. Why this matters For emerging and established designers, dependable access to trained models and organized casting is not a luxury, it is essential infrastructure. Pairing the Association’s sector-wide reach with a homegrown modeling platform promises faster show prep, more consistent fittings, and a higher standard of runway execution across brand presentations, seasonal showcases, and fashion week moments. The agreement also supports the localization of creative jobs that have historically been outsourced. What designers can expect A clearer pipeline from studio to runway.  Streamlined model scouting, casting briefs, and call-sheet logistics reduce friction for independent labels and larger houses alike. Standards and training.  Shared guidelines on walk coaching, fittings, backstage etiquette, and brand alignment raise the baseline for professional practice. Better representation for Saudi aesthetics.  With a local roster, designers can cast faces that reflect the Kingdom’s cultural identity while meeting international production standards. What it unlocks for creatives Models and talent.  Aspiring models gain a visible pathway to bookings, portfolio development, and mentorship under a reputable Riyadh agency. Stylists, MUAs, and show crews.  A more predictable production calendar means steadier opportunities for freelance creatives, from hair and makeup to choreography and show calling. Education and upskilling.  Expect workshops and short courses, building on the Association’s existing training activity, to map directly to real casting and runway needs. The bigger picture Saudi fashion is scaling quickly, with institutions formalizing pathways for talent and partnerships that connect education, production, and promotion. Agreements like this sit alongside broader initiatives that aim to elevate capacity and visibility for Saudi brands at home and abroad. For designers, the takeaway is simple. There will be more structure around casting, more opportunities to tell authentic Saudi stories on the runway, and more reasons to build your show calendar in Riyadh.