Highlights
- Prince Faisal bin Fahd Art Center, a cultural landmark. First art institutions in Riyadh since 1984.
- Prince Faisal bin Fahd Art Center hosts Misk Art Institute a non-profit cultural organization concerned with the arts, founded in December 2017.
- Shamlat art center, an old mud house has been beautifully transformed into a cultural hub.
- JAX the artistic district in Riyadh where creativity comes alive.
- JAX is the home of Diriyah biennale foundation.
- Saudi Museum of Contemporary Art at JAX.
Overview
Join us for a captivating 6-hour guided tour focused on Saudi Arabia's vibrant art scene! Begin at the King Fahad National Library, where modern design meets historical preservation. Next, visit the Hewar Art Gallery on the 52nd floor of the Kingdom Center, showcasing contemporary art in a stunning setting. Discover the Shamlat Art Center, a beautifully renovated mud house by artist Maha Malluh that harmonizes history with modern creativity. Finally, immerse yourself in the JAX District, a vibrant hub for artists that celebrates local and global artistic expression. This captivating journey offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the dynamic world of architecture, art and culture.
Details
Join us for an enriching 6-hour guided tour designed especially for art and architecture enthusiasts! This immersive experience will take you through some of Saudi Arabia's most iconic cultural landmarks, showcasing the rich tapestry of history, creativity, and innovation.
Stop 1: Prince Faisal bin Fahd Art Center
Our journey begins at the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Art Center, a cultural landmark in Riyadh. Opened in 1984, this architectural gem features a polygonal structure clad in sand-colored bricks and accented by narrow windows. Explore its two levels, including a vibrant artist workspace in the transformed basement. Designed by Abdulaziz Al-Zeibaq and restored in 2018 by Nojoud Al-Sudairi, the center blends historical significance with contemporary art. Discover how this unique space fosters creativity and collaboration among local artists, making it a must-visit for art and architecture enthusiasts!
Stop 2: Hewar Art Gallery
Next, we ascend to the Hewar Art Gallery, located on the 52nd floor of the iconic Kingdom Center. Here, you’ll explore a diverse collection of abstract and conceptual art that incorporates elements like plastic, light, video, and music. Enjoy the immersive experience of the exhibits, and participate in interactive workshops designed for all ages. Children can unleash their creativity in a dedicated area, making this stop a perfect blend of art and education. Before leaving, take a moment to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the sky bridge.
Stop 3: Shamlat Art Center
Our third stop is the Shamlat Art Center, where an old mud house has been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub by renowned Saudi artist Maha Malluh. Discover the innovative renovation that preserves key elements of the original structure while integrating modern design. Your guide will explain the thoughtful restoration process, highlighting how the building’s rich history is honored. Before we conclude this stop, be sure to visit the souvenir shop, offering a delightful selection of local and handmade items to take home.
Stop 4: JAX District
We’ll then head to the JAX District, a dynamic creative hub that reimagines the industrial heritage of Diriyah. This two-hour exploration will immerse you in cutting-edge art galleries showcasing both Saudi and international artists. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this artistic community, where creativity is celebrated and empowered. Meet local artists, learn about their work, and witness how JAX District fosters global artistic expression and cultural exploration.
Stop 1: Prince Faisal bin Fahd Art Center
Our journey begins at the Prince Faisal bin Fahd Art Center, a cultural landmark in Riyadh. Opened in 1984, this architectural gem features a polygonal structure clad in sand-colored bricks and accented by narrow windows. Explore its two levels, including a vibrant artist workspace in the transformed basement. Designed by Abdulaziz Al-Zeibaq and restored in 2018 by Nojoud Al-Sudairi, the center blends historical significance with contemporary art. Discover how this unique space fosters creativity and collaboration among local artists, making it a must-visit for art and architecture enthusiasts!
Stop 2: Hewar Art Gallery
Next, we ascend to the Hewar Art Gallery, located on the 52nd floor of the iconic Kingdom Center. Here, you’ll explore a diverse collection of abstract and conceptual art that incorporates elements like plastic, light, video, and music. Enjoy the immersive experience of the exhibits, and participate in interactive workshops designed for all ages. Children can unleash their creativity in a dedicated area, making this stop a perfect blend of art and education. Before leaving, take a moment to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the sky bridge.
Stop 3: Shamlat Art Center
Our third stop is the Shamlat Art Center, where an old mud house has been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub by renowned Saudi artist Maha Malluh. Discover the innovative renovation that preserves key elements of the original structure while integrating modern design. Your guide will explain the thoughtful restoration process, highlighting how the building’s rich history is honored. Before we conclude this stop, be sure to visit the souvenir shop, offering a delightful selection of local and handmade items to take home.
Stop 4: JAX District
We’ll then head to the JAX District, a dynamic creative hub that reimagines the industrial heritage of Diriyah. This two-hour exploration will immerse you in cutting-edge art galleries showcasing both Saudi and international artists. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this artistic community, where creativity is celebrated and empowered. Meet local artists, learn about their work, and witness how JAX District fosters global artistic expression and cultural exploration.
Know Before You Go
• Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as Riyadh can be hot during the day and cooler at night.
• Respect local customs and traditions, including cultural norms regarding greetings and interactions.
• Be prepared for some walking and wear comfortable shoes.
• Stay hydrated and carry sunscreen, especially during the warmer months.
• Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as Riyadh can be hot during the day and cooler at night.
• Respect local customs and traditions, including cultural norms regarding greetings and interactions.
• Be prepared for some walking and wear comfortable shoes.
• Stay hydrated and carry sunscreen, especially during the warmer months.
What To Bring
• Comfortable, walking shoes - You're going to be on your feet a lot exploring all those incredible historical sites, so make sure your footwear is up for the task.
• Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses - protect your face and eyes. A stylish sun hat will keep you cool and shaded from the sun during the daytime.
• Reusable water bottle - Staying hydrated is key, especially when you're active sightseeing. Bring a large bottle to refill throughout the day.
• Mobile battery pack - Make sure you can keep your phone or camera charged to capture all the great moments.
• Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses - protect your face and eyes. A stylish sun hat will keep you cool and shaded from the sun during the daytime.
• Reusable water bottle - Staying hydrated is key, especially when you're active sightseeing. Bring a large bottle to refill throughout the day.
• Mobile battery pack - Make sure you can keep your phone or camera charged to capture all the great moments.
Location
4033 الملك سعود, النموذجية, Riyadh, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia