Diriyah Season 2025 presents rich tapestry of Saudi heritage and national pride
The Diriyah
Season has officially begun under the theme “Ezek we Malfak” (Your Glory
and Refuge), celebrating Saudi Arabia’s cultural roots and national identity.
The opening ceremony took place along the scenic banks of Wadi
Safar in western Diriyah, marking the start of a 120-day cultural festival
featuring more than ten diverse programs of art, history, and heritage.
Organized by the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA),
the launch event was attended by Prince Fahd bin Saad bin Abdullah bin Turki,
Governor of Diriyah, alongside leading cultural and media figures. Through
immersive performances and visual displays, the ceremony paid tribute to “Al-Awja”—a
symbol deeply intertwined with Diriyah’s history and the spirit of Saudi
identity.
A highlight of the evening was “I Am Al-Awja”,
a multimedia show using lights, drones, and storytelling to trace the evolution
of Wadi Hanifa from
its origins to the present day. Winners of the Rawi Al-Diriyah (Narrator of
Diriyah) competition, Tamim Al-Harthi and Bader Al-Harbi, delivered interactive
performances exploring the Saudis’ enduring bond with their heritage.
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Traditional performances such as the Ardah and
Samri dances were reimagined through music and theatre, blending the old and
the new to reflect the diversity of Najdi folk arts.
Ahlam Al-Thunayan, Director of Diriyah Season,
said this year’s edition aims to “celebrate Diriyah’s history, values, and
culture in a creative way that reflects the pride Saudis have in their roots.”
She added that the symbolism of Al-Awja embodies Diriyah’s timeless identity
and renews the nation’s connection to its heritage.
The 2025 season’s lineup spans cultural,
artistic, and historical events across Diriyah’s districts. Key attractions
include:
·
Hal Al-Qusour (Castles Owners) in Al-Turaif, opening
historic palaces to visitors for the first time.
·
Teen, an exhibition showcasing authentic Najdi
architectural styles.
·
The Diriyah Novel Festival in Al-Bujairi,
celebrating Saudi literature.
·
Diriyah Nights, a fusion of local and international
cuisine in Al-Muraih.
·
The Season Market in Al-Tawali, recreating
traditional souks with crafts, music, and family workshops.
DGDA reaffirmed its commitment to cultural
sustainability, emphasizing partnerships with local artisans, Saudi talent, and
international collaborators to strengthen Diriyah’s role as the cradle of the
Saudi state and a pillar of Vision 2030.
Nasser Al-Gharbi, Chairman of the Economic
Families Association, said the season is “an inspiring model of cultural and
economic integration,” empowering local communities and productive families
through creative enterprise. He noted that showcasing authentic Najdi identity
in a modern, interactive setting reflects how culture can drive both social and
economic growth.
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Similarly, Dr. Abdulmohsen Al-Sheikh of the Saudi Economic Association
highlighted that strengthening local economies through heritage-driven
initiatives supports job creation, investment, and balanced national
development—core goals of Vision 2030.
Talal Al-Sharhan, Chairman of the Heritage
Ambassadors Association, described the Diriyah Season as “a living bridge
between past and present.” He added that evoking the symbolism of Al-Awja
instills national pride and inspires younger generations to preserve Saudi
Arabia’s heritage while shaping its cultural future.
With
its fusion of tradition and innovation, the Diriyah Season 2025 stands as a
vibrant celebration of Saudi identity—honoring the Kingdom’s historic roots
while illuminating its modern cultural renaissance.
Source: Arab News
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