Jeddah, 22 Dhu al-Qadah 1447 AH (9 May 2026)

The Dar Al Funoon Al Islamiya museum in Jeddah Park is hosting the "Zarabi" exhibition from 9 to 13 May 2026, an artistic and cultural experience inspired by the visual and spiritual dimensions of Hajj, through works that combine traditional crafts, contemporary art and Arabic calligraphy in forms that reflect Islamic identity in a modern spirit.

The exhibition presents a variety of artworks inspired by the zarabi, the carpets and rugs used in mosques and at the holy sites, evoking elements of the local environment and natural materials in a framework that links visual heritage with the spiritual memory of Hajj and worship.

Traditional Crafts in a Contemporary Artistic Vision

The exhibition highlights the beauty of traditional crafts by using natural materials such as the palm fronds used in handmade mats, where heritage elements intertwine with modern artistic visions to reimagine the details of daily life, hospitality and Islamic culture in an innovative visual style.

"Zarabi" also seeks to highlight the relationship between art and spirituality through works that evoke the aesthetic character of mosques and the holy sites and give visitors an artistic experience rooted in cultural memory and local identity.

Arabic Calligraphy as a Visual Element of Islamic Identity

The exhibition includes contemporary calligraphic works that treat the Arabic letter as an artistic and visual element, with pieces ranging from geometric to abstract compositions inspired by Kufic script, in an artistic treatment that blends Islamic authenticity with modern visual schools.

The works reflect the presence of Arabic calligraphy as one of the most prominent symbols of Islamic culture and its role in enriching contemporary visual art and connecting it with the civilizational heritage.

Interactive Workshops to Revive Handicrafts

The exhibition is accompanied by interactive workshops that let visitors try traditional crafts first-hand, including the "Loom" workshop on hand weaving, the "Mirrors" workshop inspired by Islamic ornament, and a workshop on making prayer beads by hand from various materials.

The workshops aim to introduce participants to hand-shaping methods and heritage crafts and strengthen new generations' connection to the traditional arts through direct practice.

Supporting Jeddah's Cultural and Artistic Scene

"Zarabi" is part of the cultural and artistic events celebrating the beauty of Islamic heritage and seeking to reintroduce it in contemporary ways that strengthen the presence of traditional arts and crafts in the local cultural scene.

The exhibition also reflects the growing cultural activity in Jeddah and its rising role as a center hosting artistic initiatives and exhibitions that combine identity, heritage and visual innovation.

At a Glance

  • Venue: Dar Al Funoon Al Islamiya museum, Jeddah Park
  • Dates: 9 to 13 May 2026
  • Event: "Zarabi" art exhibition
  • Concept: inspired by the spirit of Hajj and Islamic art
  • Workshops: the loom, mirrors, prayer bead making