Diriyah Biennale Foundation’s Islamic Arts Biennale Returns in 2025
The highly anticipated second Islamic Arts Biennale by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation is set to captivate audiences from January 25 to May 25, 2025. The venue for this unique event will be the Western Hajj Terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
Exploring the Artistic Heritage of Islamic Civilization
This biennial event stands out as the first and only one dedicated solely to the arts of Islamic civilization. The inaugural biennale, titled “Awwal Bait,” attracted over 600,000 visitors, setting the stage for an even grander and more immersive experience in 2025.
Building on the success of the first event, the 2025 Islamic Arts Biennale will showcase a blend of historical artifacts and contemporary art, including captivating site-specific installations that push the boundaries of creativity.
Meet the Visionary Directors
Amin Jaffer, Julian Raby, Abdulrahman Azzam, and Muhannad Shono lead the charge as directors of the second Islamic Arts Biennale. Each brings a unique perspective and expertise to the table, ensuring a diverse and enriching experience for all attendees.
Jaffer, known for his work in bridging European and Asian cultures, will once again helm the Al-Thani Collection. Raby, a distinguished scholar in Islamic art and architecture, brings his wealth of knowledge to the curatorial team. Azzam, an esteemed author and historian, continues to contribute his insights after his role in the first biennale.
Renowned Saudi artist Shono will serve as the contemporary art curator, infusing the event with his exploration of spirituality and imagination in art.
Curatorial Expertise and Immersive Experience
The expanded curatorial team, comprising Masa Al-Kutoubi, Rizwan Ahmad, Heather Ecker, Marika Sardar, Joanna Chevalier, Amina Diab, Sarah Al-Abdali, Bilal Badat, Faye Behbehani, and Wen Wen, promises a multidimensional and thought-provoking showcase of Islamic arts.
Covering over 110,000 square meters with 12,000 square meters dedicated to exhibition space, the biennale invites visitors on a mesmerizing journey through the diverse facets of Islamic arts, from objects and rituals to ideas and aesthetics.
The selection of the Western Hajj Terminal as the venue holds immense cultural significance, transforming a space traditionally used for pilgrimages to Makkah into a hub for artistic expression and cultural exchange.