The third Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale has officially opened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking a major moment in the region’s cultural and artistic landscape. Hosted in the JAX District, a vibrant creative hub that combines historical heritage with contemporary design, the Biennale brings together a diverse mix of international artists and local talent, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the global arts scene.
The 2026 edition of the Biennale, which opened at the end of January and runs through May 2, 2026, features more than 65 artists from over 37 countries. The exhibition spans multiple venues, including galleries, outdoor spaces, and historic courtyards, and includes installations, paintings, sculptures, performance art, and multimedia works. This expansive platform provides artists the opportunity to engage audiences with themes that are at once local and global, exploring issues of cultural exchange, social transformation, and the human experience.
Theme: In nterludes and transitions
The 2026 Biennale is curated under the title “In Interludes and Transitions”, a concept designed to examine the movement and evolution of societies, identities, and ideas. Co-artistic directors Nora Razian and Sabih Ahmed developed the theme to capture both literal and metaphorical journeys, emphasizing the points of pause and reflection that exist between change and continuity. The Biennale’s focus encourages visitors to consider art as a medium for dialogue, connection, and shared understanding across cultural and geographical boundaries.
The theme also highlights how contemporary life is characterized by constant transition, whether in terms of migration, technology, or socio-political shifts. By framing the exhibition around these ideas, the organizers provide a space where artists can respond creatively to the fluidity of modern existence and where audiences can experience art that resonates with global realities.
Venue and cultural significance
The Biennale takes place in the JAX District of Diriyah, a historic city that served as the birthplace of the First Saudi State and is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By hosting the event in this culturally rich environment, organizers aim to bridge Saudi Arabia’s historical narrative with contemporary artistic practices. The district has evolved into a dynamic cultural quarter, housing galleries, creative institutions, and public art installations, making it an ideal location to host a major international arts event.
By situating the Biennale in Diriyah, the organizers also highlight the kingdom’s commitment to fostering cultural tourism and establishing the country as a regional hub for artistic innovation. The district’s blend of heritage architecture and modern infrastructure provides a compelling backdrop for the creative works on display, enhancing the visitor experience and reinforcing the Biennale’s global ambitions.
Artist participation and international collaboration
The 2026 Biennale features a wide array of works across disciplines, with participating artists representing diverse cultural backgrounds. The selection includes established figures and emerging voices, ensuring that multiple perspectives and artistic languages are represented. From intimate paintings and sculptural works to large-scale installations and interactive performances, the exhibition encourages engagement, reflection, and dialogue.
This edition’s programming also prioritizes inclusivity and collaboration, emphasizing cross-cultural exchanges and interdisciplinary approaches. Many of the works explore questions of identity, memory, displacement, and social transformation, inviting audiences to consider their own experiences within broader global contexts.
Institutional support and vision
Organized by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, the event seeks to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position in the international art world while supporting regional creative communities. The foundation aims to provide a platform for cultural dialogue, nurture local talent, and foster networks between artists, curators, and institutions worldwide. By blending local heritage with contemporary practice, the Biennale demonstrates the country’s commitment to cultural development and creative innovation.
Public engagement and programs
Beyond exhibitions, the Biennale offers a series of public programs, including artist talks, workshops, and community engagement initiatives. These activities are designed to make contemporary art more accessible to the public, promote dialogue between artists and audiences, and provide educational opportunities for students and emerging creatives. Through these initiatives, the Biennale encourages cultural participation and strengthens public understanding of contemporary artistic practices.
Impact on the regional arts scene
The Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale has become a landmark event in the Middle East, attracting global attention and contributing significantly to the region’s cultural ecosystem. Its focus on international collaboration, innovative exhibition design, and engagement with pressing social and cultural themes positions the Biennale as a key platform for contemporary art. By bringing together artists from around the world, the event fosters dialogue, creativity, and cross-cultural understanding, reinforcing Riyadh’s reputation as an emerging hub for the arts.
