RIYADH: Art can be a great way to balance entertainment, culture, and spirituality during the holy month of Ramadan — and there’s no lack of exciting and exceptional exhibitions currently on display to explore across Saudi Arabia.

Here are some noteworthy events to visit in the Kingdom’s major cities for those looking to take a beat and contemplate this month, whether through Islamic art, cultural heritage, or contemporary works.

Islamic Arts Biennale, Jeddah

Set in the Western Hajj Terminal of the King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, the Islamic Arts Biennale gathers contributions from over 30 artists from Saudi Arabia and beyond, blending timeless Islamic civilization treasures and contemporary artistic creations.

Curated by renowned Saudi artist Muhannad Shono, and supported by curators Joanna Chevalier and Amina Diab, it takes visitors on a journey through the artistic heritage of Islam.

New pieces are displayed alongside historical artifacts, including religious relics, maps, and jewelry, in five indoor halls and various outdoor spaces beneath the Hajj Terminal canopy.

The Islamic Arts Biennale, which runs until May 25, is organized into seven sections across various galleries and outdoor areas: Al-Bidaya (the beginning), Al-Madar (the orbit), Al-Muqtani (homage), Al-Mathala (the canopy), Makkah Al-Mukarramah, Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, and Al-Musalla (the prayer hall).

‘Art of the Kingdom’ exhibition at Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art at Jax, Riyadh

Nestled in the capital’s Jax art district, the Saudi traveling contemporary art exhibition brings together works by 17 prominent Saudi contemporary artists from different generations, regions, and artistic practices that demonstrate the country’s burgeoning art scene.

From paintings to installations and video works, “Art of the Kingdom: Poetic Illuminations” showcases the diversity and ambition of contemporary Saudi artists under two themes: the desert and cultural traditions.

“The imagination of the future is found in these artists,” curator Diana Wechsler said. “This is one of the most fascinating aspects offered to me by the exploration of the Saudi artistic and cultural (scene).” 

The show is now in Riyadh until May 24 after its inauguration in Rio de Janeiro last year. It will then be presented later this year at the Shanghai National Museum in China, marking the 25th anniversary of the establishment of Saudi-Chinese diplomatic relations.

‘Adaptability’ exhibition at SAMoCA@Jax, Riyadh

While at SAMoCA, visitors have a chance to check out the “Adaptability” exhibition, which invites attendees on a journey of discovery and reflection on the enduring relationship between humans and clay through works by 11 artists from five Arab countries.

Curated by Samer Yamani, the exhibition brings a unique perspective to the exploration of human and material evolution.

“Adaptability” tells the timeless story of clay, its birth and its transformation at the hands of the earliest humans, who shaped their world with it, using clay as a vital tool in their journey through life.

“This exhibition beautifully illustrates the adaptability of clay, showcasing human creativity and our capacity for enduring change across cultures and civilizations,” noted curator Yamani.

‘Echoes of Land’ exhibition at Al-Nafal Park, Riyadh

In partnership with the Italian Embassy in Riyadh, Riyadh Art has unveiled a collection of contemporary sculptures by Italian artist Davide Rivalta located in the Diplomatic Quarters. Under the theme “Echoes of the Land,” the installations feature various sculptures of wild animals, like the cheetah, lion, lioness, and buffalo.

Omar Al-Braik, senior director of public art at the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, said in a statement: “Art has the power to transform public spaces, spark conversations, and connect people with their surroundings in ways that are both profound and unexpected.

“By bringing Rivalta’s work to Riyadh, we continue to expand the city’s artistic landscape, ensuring that diverse voices and creative perspectives are accessible to all.”

Ramadan Nights at Hayy Jameel, Jeddah

From March 2-29, Jeddah’s Hayy Jameel is offering a diverse monthlong cultural program, featuring interactive workshops, open sessions and film screenings on heritage, living traditions and craft; board games and storytelling activities; and Hayy Markets with locally made artisanal goods and products.

‘White Lilies of Marrakesh’ solo exhibition at Hafez Gallery, Riyadh

“The White Lilies of Marrakech: Women as Timeless Narratives” is a solo exhibition by Lebanese artist Lana Khayat, offering an artistic exploration of femininity, cultural memory, and linguistic heritage.

With each layer of the exhibition, audiences are invited into a space where art becomes a bridge between past and present, structure and fluidity, silence and voice.

The works are on display at Hafez Gallery, located in the H19 Warehouse in Riyadh’s Jax District, until March 26.

‘Authenticity and Modernity’ group exhibition at Hafez Gallery, Jeddah

The “Authenticity and Modernity” exhibition, held alongside the second edition of the Islamic Biennale in Jeddah, delves into the dynamic relationship between tradition and contemporary expression.

Each artist offers a distinct perspective on how heritage and innovation intersect, providing valuable insights into the shifting landscape of Saudi art and culture.

Participating artists include Hmoud Al-Attawi, Mahdi Al-Jeraibi, Misht Studio (Zainab Al-Mashat and Basmaa Al-Mashat), Mohammed Al-Ghamdi, Reem Anasser, and Suliman Elsalem.

The works are on display at the Hafez Gallery in Jeddah until March 25.