Fourth Edition of Noor Riyadh to Light Up Riyadh from November 28

The fourth edition of Noor Riyadh, the annual citywide festival celebrating light and art, will take place from November 28 to December 14, 2024, as announced by the Saudi Press Agency. Under the theme “Light Years Apart,” the 17-day festival will transform Riyadh into a luminous gallery with over 60 light-based artworks by leading Saudi and international artists. The event will illuminate key locations across the city, showcasing public art displays alongside workshops, seminars, and community-driven events.

Context and Background

Noor Riyadh is part of the Riyadh Art Program, one of the four Grand Projects launched by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, in line with Saudi Vision 2030. The program, managed by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, aims to establish the Saudi capital as a gallery without walls, blending tradition with modernity, and improving the quality of life of its residents and visitors. Since its inception, Noor Riyadh has grown into a major cultural event that draws global attention to the Kingdom’s artistic ambitions.

Key Details

This year’s edition will be directed by a reputable team of local and international art curators experienced in some of the world’s most prestigious art festivals and exhibitions. Leading the curatorial efforts are renowned international curator Dr. Alfredo Cramerotti and prominent Saudi curator Dr. Effat Abdullah Faddag. The festival will feature over 60 light-based artworks, creating an inspiring atmosphere for art and culture enthusiasts from all segments of society.

Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Culture, member of the Board of Directors of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, and Chairman of the Riyadh Art Program’s Steering Committee, said: “Noor Riyadh is an annual creative platform that showcases inspiring light artworks by leading artists from around the world. As part of Saudi Vision 2030, this festival enhances Riyadh’s cultural landscape and continues to build the city’s reputation as a global hub for creativity and the arts.” He also highlighted the support and patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, which continue to drive the success of Noor Riyadh.

Implications and Impact

The festival strengthens Riyadh’s position as a cultural destination, attracting international tourists and art enthusiasts while fostering local creative talent. By bringing together Saudi and global artists, Noor Riyadh promotes cross-cultural dialogue and positions the Kingdom as a leading player in the global art scene. This year’s theme, “Light Years Apart,” invites visitors to explore the intersection of art and technology, reflecting broader global trends in contemporary art.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Noor Riyadh is a key initiative under Saudi Vision 2030, supporting the Kingdom’s goals of diversifying its economy, enhancing quality of life, and promoting cultural development. The festival demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to creating vibrant communities, nurturing creative industries, and building a global reputation as a hub for innovation and the arts. Through events like Noor Riyadh, the Kingdom continues to showcase its cultural renaissance and forward-looking aspirations.

20 Questions

Q1. What is Noor Riyadh?

A1. Noor Riyadh is an annual citywide festival celebrating light and art, organized as part of the Riyadh Art Program under Saudi Vision 2030.

Q2. When will the fourth edition of Noor Riyadh take place?

A2. The fourth edition runs from November 28 to December 14, 2024, spanning 17 days of artistic displays.

Q3. What is the theme of this year’s Noor Riyadh?

A3. The theme is “Light Years Apart,” focusing on the intersection of light, art, and technology.

Q4. How many artworks will be showcased in Noor Riyadh 2024?

A4. Over 60 light-based artworks by leading Saudi and international artists will be displayed across Riyadh.

Q5. Who manages the Riyadh Art Program?

A5. The Royal Commission for Riyadh City manages the Riyadh Art Program, which includes Noor Riyadh.

Q6. Who launched the Noor Riyadh project?

A6. Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud launched it as part of four Grand Projects.

Q7. What is the goal of the Riyadh Art Program?

A7. The program aims to establish Riyadh as a gallery without walls, blending tradition and modernity.

Q8. Who are the curators for this year’s Noor Riyadh?

A8. International curator Dr. Alfredo Cramerotti and Saudi curator Dr. Effat Abdullah Faddag are leading the curation.

Q9. What did Prince Badr bin Abdullah say about Noor Riyadh?

A9. He called it an annual creative platform enhancing Riyadh’s cultural landscape and building its reputation as a global arts hub.

Q10. Who is the Chairman of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City?

A10. His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, holds the chairmanship.

Q11. How does Noor Riyadh align with Vision 2030?

A11. It supports Vision 2030 by enhancing quality of life, diversifying the economy, and promoting cultural development.

Q12. What activities are part of Noor Riyadh besides art displays?

A12. The festival includes workshops, seminars, and community-driven events for all ages.

Q13. What is the duration of the festival?

A13. The festival lasts 17 days, from November 28 to December 14, 2024.

Q14. Where will Noor Riyadh artworks be displayed?

A14. Artworks will illuminate key locations across Riyadh, transforming the city into a luminous gallery.

Q15. Who attended the announcement of Noor Riyadh 2024?

A15. The announcement was made via the Saudi Press Agency, with support from Prince Badr bin Abdullah.

Q16. What is the significance of Noor Riyadh’s theme “Light Years Apart”?

A16. The theme explores the distance between art and technology, encouraging visitors to experience light in new ways.

Q17. How many editions of Noor Riyadh have been held so far?

A17. The 2024 edition is the fourth, with previous editions held annually since 2021.

Q18. What is the role of the Ministry of Culture in Noor Riyadh?

A18. The Ministry of Culture supports the festival through its leadership, with Prince Badr bin Abdullah as Minister and Chairman of the Steering Committee.

Q19. How does Noor Riyadh benefit local artists?

A19. It provides a platform for Saudi artists to showcase their work alongside international peers, fostering talent and exposure.

Q20. Can the public attend Noor Riyadh events?

A20. Yes, all events are open to the public, with free access to many installations and activities across the city.

---