Diriyah Season 25/26 Launch Illuminates Wadi Safar with Performances Celebrating the Symbolism and Legacy of Diriyah

In the presence of His Highness Prince Fahad bin Saad bin Abdullah bin Turki Al Saud, Governor of Diriyah, along with a number of Their Highnesses, Excellencies, and distinguished guests, Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) held the official launch ceremony of Diriyah Season 25/26 yesterday at Wadi Safar in Diriyah. The event brought together prominent cultural and media figures from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and around the world.

The ceremony reflected the deep historical essence of Diriyah, embodying the symbolism of Al-Awja, a term closely associated with Diriyah and its heritage, harmoniously blending with the natural beauty and distinctive rock formations of Wadi Safar, a site of great historical significance. Over the centuries, Wadi Safar a tributary of Wadi Hanifah has stood as a testament to our Natural Heritage and served as a strategic center southwest of Diriyah during the First Saudi State.

The event featured performances by Tamim Al-Harthi and Bader Al-Harbi, winners of Rawi Diriyah program, an initiative by DGDA, who presented a moving artistic act celebrating the enduring bond between the Saudi people and the history of Diriyah, a timeless source of pride and inspiration.

A highlight of the evening was the artistic presentation titled Ana Al-Awja (I Am Al-Awja), narrating the story of Wadi Hanifah through the voice of Al-Awja, from its founding to the prosperous present day. The performance stood out for its creative visual design, advanced lighting effects, and drone technology. This was followed by a theatrical medley celebrating renowned national songs and compositions dedicated to Diriyah and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, performed by Saudi Ardahperformers and a talented all-female ensemble.

The name Al-Awja originates from the winding course of Wadi Hanifah, around which Diriyah’s historic districts and areas developed. Over time, Al-Awjabecame a proud call of heritage for the Saudi royal family, descendants of Diriyah, and a symbolic expression of national belonging. The term encapsulates values of pride, courage, and generosity, representing the deep-rooted heritage of Diriyah and the Saudi people. It stands today as a unifying national emblem connecting citizens to their authentic history and identity.

The evening concluded with a Samri performance, one of the traditional art forms representing Saudi cultural identity.

On the sidelines of the event, Ahlam Al-Thunayan, Director of Diriyah Season, expressed her gratitude, stating: “We are honored by the presence of His Highness the Governor of Diriyah, Their Highnesses, and distinguished guests. We also extend our sincere thanks to our sponsors, partners, and all participating entities. This achievement would not have been possible without their generous support. With everyone’s continued collaboration, Diriyah Season will be a resounding success that fulfills its mission of celebrating Diriyah, its history, values, and culture.”

Al-Thunayan added: “Reviving the symbolism of Al-Awja reflects the pride Saudis take in their history and in Diriyah, the birthplace of the Saudi State. All season programs have been designed to creatively showcase the values and culture of Diriyah in inspiring ways.”

Under the theme “Your Pride, Your Place" Diriyah Season 25/26 features more than ten programs encompassing a wide range of cultural and historical activities. These initiatives are designed to embody Diriyah’s identity, highlight its historical value, and reinforce its position as a leading global cultural and tourism destination that reflects the authenticity and civilizational depth of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

This year’s season offers a comprehensive cultural and tourism experience across Diriyah’s historical and natural landmarks.  At At-Turaif District, a symbol of Saudi leadership, the program Hal Al-Qusoor willopen several historic palaces to the public for the first time, showcasing stories of leadership and heroism.TYN Program will highlight the beauty of Najdi architecture, bringing together experts and enthusiasts of traditional architectural heritage.

In Al-Bujairi District, Diriyah Storytelling Festivalwill celebrate the art of storytelling and literature, while Al- Murayih District will host Layali Al-Diriyah, where fine dining meets global culinary experiences. Al-Tawalie area will revive the spirit of our historic traditional market Souq Al-Mawsim andwill celebrate Japanese Kyoto culture on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Kingdom and Japan.

Other districts across Diriyah will offer diverse programs reflecting its rich cultural tapestry. Sada Al-Wadi in Wadi Safar will spotlight traditional Saudi arts such as Samri and host performances by leading artists. Meanwhile, Zallal will welcome visitors to immersive cultural and art experiences celebrating Saudi heritage. Adhwaihrah District will feature family-friendly interactive activities, such asMsalliyah and Al-Huwayett, allowing children to explore heritage through engaging educational experiences. Samhan District will host live artistic workshops, while Minzal will take visitors on a journey through Saudi heritage, from the excitement of horsemanship, falconry, and archery to tranquil evenings under the stars filled with poetry, crafts, and authentic Saudi cuisine, where culture and nature meet in harmony.

Throughout Diriyah Season 25/26, DGDA emphasizes principles of cultural sustainability and community integration. Programs have been thoughtfully designed to respect Diriyah’s historical authenticity and natural environment, empower Saudi talent and artisans, and foster local and international partnerships that enrich the Kingdom’s cultural and tourism landscape.

Diriyah Season forms part of DGDA's ongoing efforts to solidify Diriyah’s position as the birthplace of the Saudi State and a vibrant cultural hub, enhancing its global presence and supporting the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 in establishing culture and tourism as key pillars of sustainable development and the creative economy.