8 Art Projects Awarded 'AlUla Creative Grants' to Boost Creative Exchange Between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom
Madinah – 17 Rabi' al-Awwal 1447 AH, corresponding to September 9, 2025.
The Royal Commission for AlUla announced the selection of 8 innovative art projects as part of the "AlUla Creative Grants" initiative, launched in cooperation with the British Council, aimed at supporting cultural exchange and strengthening AlUla's role as a global destination for arts, heritage, and creativity, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
At a Glance
- A Saudi–British partnership: The initiative builds on the ongoing cooperation between the two sides through knowledge-exchange programs, capacity building, and the development of creative industries, enriching the local cultural scene and strengthening AlUla's standing as a global hub for artistic cooperation and innovation.
- 78 applicants, 8 projects selected: In its first phase, the initiative received 78 applications from individuals and organizations, from which 8 artists and entities were selected, representing diverse fields including:
- Archaeology.
- Fashion.
- Museums.
- Visual and performing arts.
- Film.
- Design.
- Activities and outcomes of the initiative: The Commission explained that the selected projects will be showcased during the season marking the British Council's 50th anniversary in the Kingdom (from November 2025 to February 2026), as well as during the AlUla Arts Festival. The showcase will include:
- Art exhibitions.
- Workshops in sustainable design.
- Participation in field archaeological research.
- Training programs in cultural production.
- Storytelling of heritage narratives embodying cultural exchange between the two countries.
- AlUla as a hub for sustainable creativity: The "AlUla Creative Grants" initiative embodies the Royal Commission for AlUla's commitment to cementing the region's standing as a leading destination for arts, culture, and heritage, and promoting sustainable human development through international partnerships, reflecting its historical depth and the richness of its natural environment.
