Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — The Diriyah Biennale Foundation announced Tuesday the opening of Biennale Nights, as part of its Ramadan celebrations.

The Biennale Nights will include a special series of events at the Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah, where visitors can experience Saudi Arabia’s rich Islamic heritage in a contemporary setting. The program, taking place at the Western Hajj Terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport, will run through May 25.

The Ramadan Market will offer a variety of international foods, traditional Ramadan treats, and cultural performances. It will be open Thursday up until March 15, from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Ramadan gifts, storytelling for kids, and live music will also be featured.

Throughout the month, there will be various workshops and interactive activities. Participants can learn about Arabic calligraphy and traditional crafts like cement-based Islamic art. A collaboration with the Red Sea Film Foundation also brings a lineup of films exploring resilience, faith, and identity from the Islamic world.

Interactive experiences such as learning about the Kiswah — the sacred cloth draped over the Kaaba — or exploring how art can reflect emotions will also be featured at the event.

The Biennale will offer curated Iftar and Suhoor meals that blend traditional flavors with a modern twist, along with Ramadan beverages like jallab, tamarind juice and qamar al-din throughout the night.

With this program, the Islamic Arts Biennale provides a space for cultural exchange and dialogue. It honors Jeddah's role as a historic meeting point for people from around the world. Following the success of its first edition, which attracted more than 600,000 visitors, this year’s edition offers more opportunities for bonding and discovery.