The Misk Art Institute, part of the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (Misk), is preparing to hold the seventh edition of its Creative Forum 2026, hosting a select group of artists, creatives, cultural leaders and thinkers from the Kingdom, the region and the world in a gathering focused on the role of art and creativity in creating social impact and advancing cultural dialogue.

The forum takes place at the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC) in Riyadh on 3 and 4 September 2026, with a program that highlights the role of cultural institutions in supporting society, developing the creative scene and building new spaces for artistic and intellectual exchange.

Over two days the forum presents panel discussions, artistic performances and interactive activities, along with networking opportunities for professionals in the cultural and creative sector, allowing participants to explore local and international experiences and build new professional relationships.

Prominent Artistic and Cultural Figures

The seventh edition features a group of leading names in art, design, culture and entrepreneurship, including HRH Princess Noura Al-Faisal Al Saud, visual artist Sheikha Hala bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, Eng. Sami Al Jasser, CEO of Misk City, and Mohammed Hafiz, co-founder of Athr Gallery.

Also taking part are the thinker and cultural critic Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghathami; Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Suhaibani, Vice President for Culture at the Royal Commission for AlUla; artist and curator Lulwah Al Homoud; artists Ayman Yossri Daydban and Abdullah Al Othman; and artist and researcher Sarah Al Abdali.

The list of participants also includes Omar Al Oraifi, Executive Director of Arts at the Cultural Assets Company; Lama Al Shethry, Editor-in-Chief of Sayidaty magazine; Marie-Lyn Zakhour, Founder and CEO of Cosmic Centaurs; businessman and art collector Moumen Al Muslimani; and visual artist and researcher Maisa Shaldan.

A Program of Dialogue and Experience

The forum goes beyond panel discussions with a varied program that blends dialogue, experience and interaction. Highlights include specialized sessions, tips and guidance, "Coffee with a Cultural Expert" meetings, a specialized debate and an interactive experience titled "Do I Know My Fingerprint?".

This variety reflects the forum's aim of delivering a cultural experience that goes beyond the traditional presentation of content, engaging the audience in discussion and interaction with creative ideas and experiences.

Creativity as a Driver of Community Development

The Creative Forum 2026 focuses on art and creativity as influential elements in shaping identity and collective memory, and on their role in supporting community development and strengthening the presence of culture in public life.

The forum is part of the Misk Art Institute's efforts to support the Kingdom's artistic and cultural scene and open channels between local talent and global expertise, in step with the transformation of Saudi Arabia's cultural and creative sector.