Discover the artistic and cultural scene in Jeddah

In this edition of Inspire Saudi, we explore the vibrant port city of Jeddah. From the tree-lined  Corniche with its artistic sculptures to the historical district of Al-Balad that dates back to the 7th century, the city is a captivating hub and melting pot of cultures and flavours.

Visitors from all age groups can experience diversity, modernity, and authenticity within huge wide-open spaces and spacious exhibition centres. For those that are craving culture, history and creativity after the two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s something for everyone in Saudi, whilst still managing to social distance.

Arts and culture run through the very DNA of this city. It's home to Saudi Arts Council's 21,39 Jeddah Arts Exhibition as well as Hayy Jameel, Saudi's dedicated art space.

From the tree-lined Jeddah Corniche (waterfront) peppered with sculptures to the contemporary art space that is SAC the city is awash with artistic flair. The ninth edition of 21,39 Jeddah Arts exhibition is called Amakin, and artists were invited to explore their relationship with a Makan or place. 

Lujain Faqerah is an artist in Jeddah and she said the exhibition has covered many themes.

"Artist Jeddah 21,39 is one of the oldest art exhibitions here in Saudi. So it's very collectivistic of all the artists, not only the locals but also from all around the world. Every year it comes with a theme that is more interesting than the year before."

Across town, the newly opened Hayy Jameel Art Centre is a multidisciplinary cultural hub and Saudi’s dedicated home for the arts.

Rahul Gudipudi, Exhibitions Curator, Hayy Jameel said "Hayy Jameel is really becoming this crucible and intimate space for creatives to really nurture each other's practices and learn