Islamic Arts Biennale Returns to Jeddah in 2025

26 September 2024

The Islamic Arts Biennale will return to Jeddah in 2025, offering a captivating celebration of Islamic art and culture. Running from January 25 to May 25, 2025, the event will take place at the iconic Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport, a site that carries deep significance for Muslim pilgrims. The biennale, organized by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, builds on the success of its 2023 debut and promises to offer an even richer experience with the theme “And All That Is In-Between.” This edition will explore how faith is expressed through emotions, beliefs, and creativity, weaving together a dialogue between historical artifacts and contemporary art.

This grand event will showcase over 500 pieces from more than 30 global institutions, including renowned museums such as the Louvre and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Highlights include sacred artifacts from Makkah and Madinah, celestial navigation exhibits, Islamic gardens, and a new prayer space design competition, with the winning concept constructed on-site. The Vatican Library will also present pieces in the Al-Madar section’s “Art of Numbers” exhibit, enriching the dialogue between Islamic and global cultures.

Curated by a distinguished team, including Amin Jaffer, Julian Raby, and Abdulrahman Azzam, alongside contemporary art curator Muhannad Shono, the biennale aims to foster artistic exchange between Saudi Arabia and the world. With new works from over 20 artists and global collaborations, the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 continues Saudi Arabia’s mission to position itself as a cultural hub, promoting the richness of Islamic arts and the shared heritage of humanity.