The Diriyah Biennale Foundation is thrilled to announce the second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale (IAB), set to take place from January to May 2025 at the Western Hajj Terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
Serving as a tribute to Islamic civilization, the IAB is known to blend historical artifacts with contemporary art across 110,000 square meters, with the terminal transformed into a cultural venue. The 2025 edition will delve deeper into architecture, featuring the AlMusalla Prize—a global architecture competition for a sustainable mosque on the Biennale site.
Following the success of the previous and first edition, titled Awwal Bait, which drew over 600,000 visitors, the 2025 Islamic Arts Biennale continues its exploration of Islamic arts. AlMadar, a forum for institutions with significant Islamic art holdings, returns once again, bringing about collaboration and dialogue. A gallery within AlMadar, named Homage, celebrates and honors important Islamic art collections. Special pavilions, Makkah and Madinah, Focus on the histories of these holy sites, creating connections between ancient artistic practices and contemporary expressions.
Recognizing the architectural significance of the location, the 2025 IAB expands its focus on architecture, introducing the AlMusalla Prize—an international competition for a mosque on the Biennale site. The competition focuses on a versatile, modular space that meets prayer requirements and follows sustainable construction methods.
Led by Aya Al-Bakree, CEO of the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, an international curatorial team, including Artistic Directors Amin Jaffer, Julian Raby, and Abdul Rahman Azzam, will take part in bringing the 2025 IAB to life. Contemporary Art Curator Muhannad Shono, a talented Saudi artist, will contribute his insights into spirituality and imagination. This collaboration reaffirms The Diriyah Bienalle Foundation’s position in Saudi Arabia’s arts scene, connecting ancient and contemporary art.
H.E. Rakan Al-Touq, Vice Chairman of the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, expressed his excitement for the second edition, highlighting its various offerings, including AlMadar and pavilions dedicated to Makkah and Madinah. Aya Al-Bakree emphasized on her commitment and dedication to making sure that the art is curated excellently., welcoming a distinguished team that bring in new and creative perspectives on global and local Islamic arts discourse.
The Islamic Arts Biennale, organized by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, is a platform that focuses on to nurturing creative expression and cultural appreciation in Saudi Arabia. Different to the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale, the foundation oversees the development of the JAX District in Diriyah, housing its headquarters. The 2025 Islamic Art Biennale promises to be a unique and impactful exhibition, inviting local and international visitors to delve into the rich tapestry of Islamic arts.
Photo Credits belong to: Marco Cappelletti, Jay Langlois | Owens Corning
