Riyadh, 11 Shawwal 1447 AH (30 March 2026)

Diriyah Season 25/26 has concluded the events it launched in November 2025 and ran until the end of March 2026, offering a complete cultural and tourism experience through varied programs spread across Diriyah's historic districts. The season combined history, the arts and nature in a blend reflecting the depth of the national heritage and the spirit of the present, strengthening Diriyah's standing as a global destination that unites authenticity and renewal.

Strong Attendance and a Complete Cultural Experience

The season drew large numbers of tourists from inside and outside the Kingdom, confirming the success of efforts to strengthen the cultural economy and develop the tourism sector. It offered a unique experience that highlighted Diriyah's rich history through programs combining culture, entertainment and tourism in a narrative of authenticity and innovation.

Diriyah Season director Ahlam Al Thunayan thanked HRH Princess Sara bint Fahd bin Salman, CEO of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, and HE Ahmed bin Aqeel Al Khatib, Secretary General of the authority's board, for their continued support and enablement since the start of the season.

Varied Programs and Exhibitions

Cultural and knowledge programs were among the season's highlights. The Diriyah Novel Festival created a living space for thought, creativity and dialogue in the Al Bujairi district, drawing writers and intellectuals from around the world.

This year's edition of the Season Market in the Al Tawale'a area celebrated Japan and the culture of Kyoto to mark 70 years of Saudi–Japanese diplomatic relations, with an identity blending the two cultures through aesthetic elements and innovative details.

Wadi Safar hosted the "Echo of the Valley" program and its musical evenings spotlighting Saudi arts in an open natural setting, offering an experience that unites art and nature.

In the historic Al Muraih district, Diriyah Nights welcomed visitors in an atmosphere inspired by the history of the place, while the "Samhan" program presented performing arts and Najdi poetry and storytelling. "Manzal" offered a unique experience overlooking Wadi Safar inspired by the values of Saudi hospitality.

In the historic At-Turaif district, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the "Hal Al Qusour" program let visitors enter six historic palaces of the imams and princes of the First Saudi State, with detailed historical narration.

The "Al Huwait" and "Musalliyah" programs in the Al Dhuwaihirah district offered interactive educational and entertainment activities introducing young people to Diriyah's authentic values and traditions and strengthening their bond with identity and heritage.

Traditional Architecture and Sustainability

The season spotlighted traditional Najdi architecture and the principles of sustainability, presenting the use of natural building materials and reflecting the relationship between local architecture and the natural environment, highlighting the diversity of the season's programs between authenticity and a contemporary spirit.

The Season's Success and Its Role in Vision 2030

Thanks to its partners, Diriyah Season 25/26 delivered a complete experience that redefined the relationship between place and people through cultural and knowledge programs spread across Diriyah's historic districts, strengthening its standing as one of the Kingdom's leading cultural and tourism initiatives.

The season is a model of balance between historical identity and contemporary experience, reflecting the cultural transformation under way in the Kingdom under Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to develop national tourism destinations offering complete experiences that attract visitors locally and internationally.

At a Glance

  • Location: Historic Diriyah, Riyadh
  • Organizer: Diriyah Gate Development Authority
  • Events: cultural festivals, concerts, heritage markets, interactive activities
  • Goal: strengthening the cultural economy and tourism, highlighting heritage and national identity