A look at Riyadh Art, which is going to bring public art to the city

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Riyadh Landmark — XXL. (Supplied photo)
Updated 28 April 2019
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A look at Riyadh Art, which is going to bring public art to the city

  • Riyadh Art will distribute more than 1,000 pieces of art in public spaces throughout the city
  • Art suffered a setback in Saudi Arabia when the Sahwa movement held sway

RIYADH: When you think of cities around the world famous for their art, Riyadh does not instantly spring to mind, but with Saudi Arabia’s cultural revolution beginning in earnest, all that will change.

Last month, King Salman announced four projects for the capital, one of which is Riyadh Art, which will feature the distribution of more than 1,000 pieces of art in public spaces throughout the city by the end of 2023.

Saudi Arabia “has a rich archaeological, architectural and cultural history, as well as an increasingly dynamic contemporary art scene,” said Edward Gibbs, Sotheby’s chairman for the Middle East and India. 

“Pioneering projects such as … the open-air Sculpture Museum in Jeddah paved the way by showing the tangible social benefits of displaying contemporary art in an urban setting,” he added.

“Riyadh Art is an exciting new initiative which promises to promote new dialogues, forging conversations between the next generation of Saudi artists and the wider community,” he said.

“We look forward to seeing the expanded artistic and creative perspectives that Riyadh Art is sure to bring to the capital city, as well as to other centers of creativity in the Kingdom.”

In the 1950s, Saudi artists took inspiration from European Renaissance paintings. In the 1960s, the first art scholarships were awarded to young Saudis, giving them the opportunity to travel abroad.




The Noor Festival will showcase interactive artworks based on illumination. (Supplied photo)

Futurism, impressionism, cubism and abstract art all found their way into local art until around 1979. But then came the Sahwa, an ideological movement against Western cultural influence.

Almost overnight, things in Saudi Arabia changed. An austere, conservative cloud settled over the country, choking the art scene.

But it has been revived significantly in recent years, including the formation of the Saudi Art Council in 2014.

The idea of art being a necessity rather than a luxury was starting to return to Saudi Arabia, and the concept of being an artist was starting to look like more than just a hobby again.

There was also the foundation of Art Jameel, created by the family of the late entrepreneur, visionary and art lover Abdul Latif Jameel, which actively works to support the art community in Saudi Arabia.

Riyadh Art is one of the biggest and most ambitious of the Vision 2030 projects to date. Featuring offerings from both local and international artists, the project will establish Riyadh as a major arts hub.

According to details seen exclusively by Arab News, Art Riyadh will comprise 11 sub-projects.

Several of them will be permanent, stationary locations for local artists. The Urban Art Lab will consist of galleries featuring well-known artists in city squares, which will encourage interaction between artists and citizens.

The Joyous Gardens will be playgrounds in neighborhood gardens designed by famous artists.

Jewels of Riyadh will consist of a collection of valuable artworks that will be installed at tourist destinations.

The Welcoming Gateways, at Riyadh’s entrances, will feature creative designs and unique architecture.




The Jewels of Riyadh project will consist of valuable artworks installed at tourist destinations. (Supplied photo)

Art on the Move will include sculptures at important intersections across the city. Art in Transit will reflect the opening of the new Metro, scheduled to begin operation before the end of 2019, with artworks in metro and bus stations.

Urban Flow will consist of pedestrian bridges designed by artists to strengthen the city’s interconnectivity and encourage citizens to walk.

Garden City will be a garden for art, containing monuments and sculptures in a permanent location in the heart of Riyadh.

The annual Noor Festival will showcase interactive artworks based on illumination, held in one of the local parks. Perhaps most ambitiously, the Riyadh Landmark — XXL will distinguish the city.

Details are being kept tightly under wraps for now, but an announcement is expected soon. According to Riyadh Art representatives, the project’s design and study are being finalized, implementation is expected to start in the second half of 2019, and completion is expected at the end of 2023.

Local artists are excited about the prospects. “Everything about this project excites me: The revival of art and culture in Saudi Arabia, the potential psychological impact it could have on people’s mood, the enrichment it could bring to people’s lives. I’d mind being stuck in Riyadh traffic a lot less if I had something beautiful to look at,” sculptor Talal Altukhaes told Arab News.

“We have so many talented, brilliant, artistic Saudi youths who’ve been waiting for an opportunity like this for a long time.”

Artist Ameera Sheikh, known to her tens of thousands of fans online as “Mikandii,” told Arab News that the project will “give so many people the chance to shine and to showcase their talents.”




Artist Ameera Sheikh. (Supplied photo)

She said: “In the past, it has been much more difficult for artists to find support in Saudi Arabia, but things are changing, and I’m so happy to see it.”

Sheikh, who works fulltime as a freelance artist, added: “In the past, we haven’t had enough opportunities for Saudi artists to really maximize their own potential. In Jeddah, where I live, there are galleries opening and more spaces dedicated to art, but most of the ones I’ve seen have been temporary. It’s very nice to see something more permanent being made available.”

Aljohara Jeje, a Dutch artist living in Saudi Arabia who splits her time between Jeddah and Riyadh, is well-known in the Jeddah art community, and her work has been displayed in some of the city’s most prestigious galleries.

Her most recent work, a poster of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has gained critical acclaim in Jeddah’s art scene.

“Riyadh Art sounds magnificent,” Jeje told Arab News. “Riyadh is an amazing place, so vibrant. It’s a city that’s growing exponentially, and so is the interest in it. So I welcome the activity and look forward to seeing Riyadh Art.”




Dutch artist Aljohara Jeje and her poster of the Saudi crown prince. (Supplied photo)

She said the project will help Riyadh catch up to Jeddah’s art scene, adding: “I believe that Jeddah can become the next global art hub, and Riyadh is lagging a little bit behind in that respect. Jeddah can easily, within a few years, be on par with some of the larger, globally recognized art cities such as Berlin or Shanghai.”

Jeje expressed hope that Riyadh Art will make people more receptive to art as a cultural necessity.

“Art is for everyone. It needs to be available to the public, and people need to get used to it as a part of life,” she said.

“You don’t have to like all of it. You can develop tastes and preferences over time. But art needs to be made available for everyone so we can get used to it.”

Participation criteria are being finalized, and details will be announced in the second half of the year, Riyadh Art organizers told Arab News.

 


Saudi women embrace natural beauty: a fresh take on changing standards

Updated 07 January 2025
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Saudi women embrace natural beauty: a fresh take on changing standards

  • Trend focuses on simplicity over perfection
  • Consumers take more mindful approach

RIYADH: Women in Saudi Arabia have been embracing a more natural approach to their beauty routines in recent years, focusing on sustainability, health and authenticity over heavy makeup and curated perfection.

Arab News spoke to several women who described how this trend reflects a deep alignment with personal and societal values — prioritizing routines that enhance their natural features while promoting overall well-being and environmental sustainability.

For Laila Al-Ghamdi, this change is personal. “A few years ago, I would say natural beauty was everything to me. As a young teenager, my whole world used to revolve around the epitome of beauty,” she said. “Nowadays, healthier choices are influencing my decisions, and ironically, they’re the ones that make me prettier.”

LOCA focuses on ‘natural ingredients and sustainable packaging.’ (Instagram/locabeautysa)

This shift is supported by local brands that cater to these changing standards. One standout is LOCA Beauty, a Saudi brand with a focus on sustainability that was founded in 2018.

“LOCA Beauty was born out of a desire to provide innovative solutions that align with the Saudi lifestyle,” said Mai Al-Mohaimeed, marketing director of LOCA. “We focus on natural ingredients and sustainable packaging, which resonates deeply with our customers.”

Similarly, Asteri, another brand, empowers women with vegan products that withstand harsh weather conditions while celebrating the region’s natural beauty.

Beauty is no longer about fitting into a mold. It’s about feeling good in your own skin and celebrating who you are.

Munira Al-Ahmad, Local

Sustainability is central to the natural beauty movement in Saudi Arabia. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental and health effects of their purchases. Local brands are rising to meet this demand with eco-friendly materials and safe ingredients.

Glossig, inspired by Saudi Arabia’s desert landscapes, combines cultural storytelling with artistic innovation to enhance individuality. Meanwhile, Mai Ward and Jayla emphasize sustainability and luxury — Mai Ward celebrates Saudi heritage through handcrafted, sustainable products, while Ladeena focuses on organic solutions, delivering skin-friendly products infused with natural oils and butters.

Glossig is inspired by Saudi Arabia’s desert landscapes. (Instagram/glossigcosmetic)

For women like Rawan Al-Zahrani and Munira Al-Ahmad, these brands have become trusted choices.

“I love how LOCA products feel luxurious yet sustainable. Their makeup products are my go-to because they offer such an amazing glow to my skin,” Al-Zahrani said.

Al-Ahmad, meanwhile, praised Asteri for its innovative solutions. “Asteri’s products feel like they’re made for me — lightweight but effective, perfect for our environment,” she said.

Saudi women are increasingly embracing a more natural approach to their beauty routines. (@locabeautysa)

Social media has also played a transformative role in this cultural shift. Platforms such as Instagram have become spaces for clean beauty enthusiasts to share tips and inspire others. Influencers highlight natural products and promote mindful consumerism.

“I follow several Saudi influencers who promote natural beauty and share tips on skincare and makeup,” Al-Zahrani said. “Their advice has helped me simplify my routine and focus on products that work for me.”

While local brands are thriving, they face significant challenges in competing with international giants. In a market saturated with global names it is difficult for smaller brands to stand out.

Asteri Beauty is a Saudi brand that offers vegan products. (Supplied)

“Being a local beauty brand presents both opportunities and challenges,” Al-Mohaimeed said. “This also provides us with an opportunity to emphasize what sets us apart — our deep understanding of the Saudi market and the cultural nuances that shape our consumers’ needs.”

Changing beauty standards also reflect a generational change. Younger Saudis are more open to challenging traditional norms and exploring new ideas, driving innovation in the beauty industry. Natural beauty is becoming more about celebrating individuality and authenticity.

“Beauty is no longer about fitting into a mold,” Al-Ahmad said. “It’s about feeling good in your own skin and celebrating who you are.”

By choosing products and routines that align with their values, Saudi women are redefining the beauty industry, shaping a more sustainable future one natural step at a time.

 


GCC secretary general receives British ambassador to Saudi Arabia

Updated 07 January 2025
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GCC secretary general receives British ambassador to Saudi Arabia

  • Albudaiwi emphasized the importance of strengthening relations between the GCC and the UK within the framework of their strategic partnership

RIYADH: Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council Jasem Albudaiwi received UK Ambassador to the Kingdom Neil Crompton at the GCC Secretariat headquarters in Riyadh on Tuesday.

During the meeting, they discussed the progress of negotiations on the free trade agreement signed between the GCC and the UK and reviewed the latest regional and international developments, the General Secretariat wrote in a statement.

Albudaiwi emphasized the importance of strengthening relations between the GCC and the UK within the framework of their strategic partnership, serving the aspirations and mutual interests of both sides.

 


Saudi authorities warn of inclement weather as country braces for heavy rainfall

National Center for Meteorology forecast moderate to heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, hail and strong winds in part
Updated 07 January 2025
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Saudi authorities warn of inclement weather as country braces for heavy rainfall

  • Riyadh received the season’s first rainfall with an umbrella of cloud enveloping the city skyline on Tuesday
  • Makkah, Madinah and Jeddah received heavy rainfall on Monday with floods in low lying areas

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s meteorology authorities have forecast more rain accompanied by thunderstorms across several regions, with a red alert in Makkah, Asir and Baha regions due to the inclement weather.

The National Center for Meteorology forecast moderate to heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, hail and strong winds in parts of Asir, Al-Baha and Makkah.

Fog may form in some areas of these regions, it added.

Temperatures will drop and frost may form in the northern parts of the Kingdom, according to the NCM.

It added that dust-stirring winds will blow and rain may fall in parts of Riyadh, Qassim, the Eastern Region and Jazan regions.

Meanwhile, Riyadh received the season’s first rainfall with an umbrella of cloud enveloping the city skyline on Tuesday. Some areas in the capital also were lashed by hail.

Makkah, Madinah and Jeddah received heavy rainfall on Monday with floods in low lying areas, forcing the Civil Defense to warn against venturing into flooded areas and valleys.

The General Directorate of Civil Defense has issued warnings and safety instructions, as the country braces for heavy rainfall, urging the public to stay at home, avoid valleys and waterlogged areas, and adhere to all safety directives.

“We follow the weather conditions in some areas of the Kingdom, and call for staying away from valleys and water bodies,” the Civil Defense posted on X.

“During rain, stay away from low-lying areas, water pools and deep valleys,” it added.

Makkah Governorate on X posted several videos of heavy rains, thunderstorm and waterspouts.

Social media is filled with videos from the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, and the Red Sea City of Jeddah, showing streets and city roads flooded, and cars submerged as result of heavy rainfall.

According to the NCM, winds over the Red Sea will be northeasterly to northerly in the northern and central parts, and southeasterly to southwesterly in the southern part at speeds of 20-50 km per hour. Waves may range from one meter and a half to more than two meters, and the sea will be relatively calm to choppy.


KSrelief delivers critical food, shelter aid to Syrian families

KSrelief distributes food and shelter aid to 200 families in the city of Douma, in coordination with Syrian Arab Red Crescent.
Updated 07 January 2025
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KSrelief delivers critical food, shelter aid to Syrian families

  • Saudi aid agency also launches voluntary program to support Syrian healthcare sector

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief on Tuesday distributed food and shelter aid to 200 families in the city of Douma, in the Rif Dimashq governorate of Syria, in coordination with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent.

Also on Tuesday, KSrelief distributed food and shelter aid in the village of Nasib, in the Daraa governorate, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

To date, seven planes carrying food, medical supplies, and shelter materials have arrived at Damascus International Airport as part of a Saudi relief airlift.

Additionally, 60 Saudi trucks containing essential supplies, including food, shelter materials, and medical supplies crossed the Nasib Border Crossing into Syria as part of a Saudi relief land bridge operated by KSrelief.

On Jan. 1, Saudi Arabia launched an initiative to provide essential aid to Syria, supporting efforts under the country’s new leadership to rebuild after years of civil war.

According to KSrelief, the Kingdom’s total aid to the Syrian people from 2011 to the end of 2024 exceeds $856 million.

Recently, Syrian Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Fadi Al-Qassem met with the KSrelief team in Damascus, where they discussed ways to deliver aid to the Syrian people and coordination between the Saudi aid agency and civil society organizations in the country.

Al-Qassem commended the support provided by Saudi Arabia through KSrelief and praised the Kingdom’s prompt response to the humanitarian situation in Syria.

Syrian Minister of Health Dr. Maher Al-Sharaa also met with the KSrelief team and discussed ways to contribute to addressing the needs of the Syrian healthcare sector.

Meanwhile, in Lebanon, KSrelief continues implementing its project to enhance healthcare services for Syrian refugees and the host community in the town of Arsal.

In one month, the Arsal Primary Health Care Center received 12,676 patients and provided 23,386 services across various departments.

The initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing humanitarian efforts to alleviate the suffering of those in need, particularly Syrian refugees affected by the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

KSrelief also announced the opening of registration for the Saudi Voluntary Program for Syrians. The program aims to support the Kingdom’s humanitarian efforts by providing critical emergency and medical services to Syrians in need.

The initiative covers surgery, psychological support, gynecology and obstetrics, orthopedics, internal medicine, pediatrics, physiotherapy, speech and communication therapy, and prosthetics, among other treatments.

Registration is available here.


Al-Ahsa’s bishts are exquisitely tailored, rich cultural symbols

Al-Ahsa is known for its diverse industries and handicrafts, particularly the Hasawi bishts. (SPA)
Updated 07 January 2025
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Al-Ahsa’s bishts are exquisitely tailored, rich cultural symbols

  • Known across the Arab world for their elegance, quality and intricate embroidery 

RIYADH: Al-Ahsa is known for its diverse industries and handicrafts, particularly the Hasawi bishts, which are sought-after across the Arab world for their exquisite tailoring, quality and intricate embroidery. 

The Hasawi bisht is favored by dignitaries, officials and businesspeople for its aesthetics as well as the rich culture it represents, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently. 

They come in dark or light fabrics depending on taste, the occasion and season.

These garments are often adorned with silk thread, as well as golden and silver zari embroidery in shades of yellow, reddish hues, and white, the SPA reported.

Handmade bishts continue to be in demand despite machine-made options.

Certain families in Al-Ahsa and elsewhere in the Kingdom are renowned for their expertise in crafting handmade and artisanal bishts, with meticulous attention to design, shape and embroidery. 

Prices vary based on craftsmanship, fabric quality, and the type of zari used. Fabrics from Japan or Kashmir, along with German zari, are factors in determining cost. 

Winter bishts, woven from camel hair, come in varying quality and are distinguished by their thickness and weight compared to those made for summer.

Bisht fabrics are woven in Saudi Arabia, Syria and Jordan, with China and India offering similar manufactured options, the SPA added.

The embellishment of the winter Hasawi bisht initially had silk thread, and later incorporated golden and silver. 

Stitching the karmuk, the wide section adorned with zari, can take 14 days by hand, while a machine can complete the task in two hours.