The Diriyah Biennale Foundation is introducing “Biennale Nights,” a Ramadan event that takes place as part of the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 at the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport. This special program will run until May 25, 2025, and offers an immersive cultural experience for those visiting during the holy month.
“Biennale Nights” aims to celebrate Ramadan by presenting both spirituality and creativity, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s Islamic heritage. With collaboration from both local and global artists and institutions, the event provides a platform for exploring the diverse traditions of Islamic art.
Visitors can participate in various workshops that focus on Arabic calligraphy, traditional crafts, and other hands-on activities. There will also be interactive displays that showcase the artistic and cultural practices associated with Ramadan. In partnership with the Red Sea Film Foundation, the program will present a series of films that explore important themes like faith, resilience, and identity within the Islamic world.
A major part of “Biennale Nights” is the Ramadan Market, where visitors can explore and taste multiple different dishes. In addition, there will also be Iftar and Suhoor meals for visitors interested in spending more time at the museum.
Ramadan Programming Highlights
Ramadan Market
Starting from March 6 to March 15 2025, the market will open its doors between 8:00 pm and 2:00 am, offering visitors the chance to enjoy a number of activities including:
- A variety of cuisines from different parts of the world.
- Specialty delicacies such as dates, honey, spices, chocolates, and more to take home.
- Traditional beverages, including Karak, coffee, and other hot drinks.
- Henna art.
- Game wagons and storytelling sessions for children.
- Unique Ramadan gifts available at the Biennale Design Store.
- Live music and cultural performances, adding to the festive atmosphere.
- Dedicated communal areas for visitors to gather, connect, and share the spirit of Ramadan.
Workshops & Art Labs
March 6, 2025
10:00 pm – 1:00 am: Gilding on Square Kufic calligraphy – for adults, by Islamic Art Lab with Yasmine Maktabi.
10:00 pm – 1:00 am: Punch Needling: Ramadan Nights – Age: 16+, with Kawthar Smaren.
March 7, 2025
10:00 pm – 12:00 am: Crafting Islamic Art with Cement – Age: 6 – 12 years, with Khulood Nooruddin.
March 9,2025
10:00 pm – 01:00 am: Make Your Dyes from Nature’s Palette – for Adults, by Threads of Hope with Arushi Chowdhury Khanna.
March 11, 2025
10:00 pm – 1:30 am: Kitchen Sessions: Bridging Art and Food with Seasonal and Ancient Flavors – for adults, by Indulge Thyself with Yasmin Hamza.
March 15, 2025
10:00 pm – 1:00 am: Create a Textile Collage Inspired by Islamic Designs – for adults, with Areen Hassan.
Film Screenings
March 6, 2025
10:00 pm – 11:45 pm: Red Path – for adults, by Red Sea International Film Foundation.
March 13, 2025
11:00 pm – 12:40 am: To Kill a Mongolian Horse – for adults, by Red Sea International Film Foundation.
Interactive Experiences
March 6, 2025
10:00 pm – 2:00 am: The Making and Care of the Kiswah of the Holy Ka’bah, for all ages – by Haramen: The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.
10:30 pm – 12:30 am: Observe Emotions in Between, for adults, with Dr. Maan Alabbadi.
March 13, 2025
10:00 pm – 12:30 am: Kitchen Sessions: Ancestral Foods—An Inspired Exploration, for adults, by Of the Land.
Iftar And Sahour at the Biennale
The Biennale’s Ramadan dining experiences offer a variety of Iftar and Sahour options, blending traditional flavors with modern culinary artistry.
- Curated Iftar menus for pre booked gatherings: Featuring dishes inspired by regional Saudi and Middle Eastern cuisine;
- Sahour gatherings: Enjoy light, nourishing meals with freshly baked breads, yogurt, and dates, accompanied by live Oud music;
- Beverage stations: Refreshing Jallab, Tamarind juice, and Qamar al-Din available throughout the night.
The program is open to everyone visiting the Biennale, and those interested can register through the official website (biennale.org.sa). For further updates, follow biennale_sa on social media.
