RIYADH, 24 August 2025 — The Music Commission yesterday concluded the events of the first edition of the "Al-Tar" Festival, held at Abu Bakr Salem Theater in Riyadh's Boulevard district from 20 to 23 August, coinciding with the Esports World Cup.

The festival, which ran over four nights, saw wide public turnout from various age groups, as visitors enjoyed musical evenings performed by eight of Saudi Arabia's leading singing stars. The festival also featured interactive and enriching zones, including:

  • A musical instruments market inspired by Riyadh's historic "Souq Al-Hilla."
  • Interactive musical experiences.
  • Craft areas dedicated to making traditional musical instruments.
  • Photo corners and merchandise inspired by the festival's identity.

The Commission affirmed that the festival is part of celebrating Saudi Arabia's musical heritage, and of highlighting the "tar" (frame drum) as an authentic artistic symbol presented in a contemporary format that meets the aspirations of new generations, alongside empowering Saudi talent and giving audiences a complete musical experience.

Music Commission CEO Paul Pacifico explained that the festival was an opportunity to showcase the rich diversity of tar rhythms and reinforce its presence as one of the pillars of national musical identity, noting that the main goal is to connect the past with the present and inspire young artists to employ heritage rhythms in their modern creations.

The "Al-Tar" Festival is a distinctive addition to the Saudi cultural and musical scene, coinciding with the Esports World Cup, which drew local and international crowds, giving it the opportunity to present Saudi musical heritage to a global audience on the Kingdom's soil and across digital platforms.