Under the esteemed patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Fahd bin Saad bin Abdullah bin Turki, Governor of Diriyah, the Diriyah Gate Development Authority officially inaugurated the Diriyah Season 25/26 in the historic Wadi Safar. The launch ceremony, held yesterday evening, was a profound tribute to the region’s heritage, drawing deeply from the symbolism of Al-Awja—the iconic bend of Wadi Hanifa that is synonymous with Diriyah itself. This choice of venue was deliberate, celebrating not only the natural splendor of Wadi Safar but also its pivotal role as a key area during the era of the First Saudi State, thereby grounding the entire season in a rich historical context.
The ceremonial launch was a feast for the senses, blending cultural depth with artistic innovation. A highlight was the original performance piece titled “I am Al-Awja,” which masterfully narrated the epic history of the region through stunning visual creativity and advanced light technology. The evening was further enriched by performances from the winners of the Rawi Diriyah program, alongside traditional Saudi arts such as the Ardah and Samri. These elements collectively reinforced the profound and enduring connection the Saudi people feel to their ancestral homeland. Staged under the powerful slogan “Your Pride, Your Place,” the season is meticulously designed to embody the unique identity and immense historical value of Diriyah, cementing its status as a premier global cultural destination.
The Diriyah Season 25/26 promises an extensive and immersive cultural and tourism experience, featuring over 10 distinct programs spread across both historical and natural sites. The activities are thoughtfully distributed throughout Diriyah’s key historic districts, each offering a unique facet of the region’s story. In the At-Turaif District, the Hal Al-Qusoor program offers an unprecedented opportunity for the public to step inside historical palaces, revealing the narrative of leadership and governance. The Al-Bujairi District will host the Diriyah Storytelling Festival, a celebration of literature and oral narrative traditions. For culinary enthusiasts, the Al-Murayih District presents Layali Diriyah, an exquisite blend of culinary arts featuring international dining experiences. Meanwhile, the host site of the launch, Wadi Safar, will be the venue for the Sada Al-Wadi program, which shines a spotlight on traditional Saudi arts, ensuring the valley’s legacy is central to the season’s offerings.
More than just a series of events, the Diriyah Season 25/26 is a strategic initiative committed to cultural sustainability and the empowerment of national talents. This ambitious program directly serves the broader objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, working to position Diriyah not merely as a seasonal attraction but as the recognized cradle of the Saudi state and a permanent, dynamic platform for cultural and tourism activity. By intertwining the past with the present, the season ensures that the legacy of the First Saudi State continues to inspire and engage audiences from around the world.