From Art to Heritage: The Must-See Cultural Events in the Middle East

By Mehar Deep Kaur -
October 16, 2024

The Middle East is rich in history, culture, and tradition from Saudi Arabia to the UAE, offering a diverse palette of artistic expressions. The region hosts various cultural events that bring together local and international artists, paying homage to its deep-rooted heritage and arts. These events provide emerging artists with significant opportunities while serving as knowledge hubs for art enthusiasts, allowing them to immerse themselves in the region’s creative spirit.


Essence of Middle East | Source: curlytales

Must-Attend Cultural Events in the Middle East

2024 | Upcoming Events this year

 

Bahrain International Music Festival: (October 1st-24th)


Bahrain International Music Festival Stage Set | Source: gulfinsider

The 33rd edition of the Bahrain International Music Festival, taking place from October 1-24, will spotlight a diverse array of music genres from Bahrain and beyond. Attendees can enjoy a rich blend of local, Gulf, Arab, and international performances. The festival will kick off with a performance by Grammy Award-winning soprano Fatma Said, followed by renowned artists like Luca Velotti with Silvia Manco,and the Matti Klein Soul Tri This eclectic lineup ensures a dynamic musical journey, showcasing a variety of styles that reflect Bahrain’s cultural diversity.

Ajyal Film Festival, Qatar (November 16th-23th)


Ajyal Film Festival, Qatar Stage Set 2020 | Source: timesoutdoha

The festival’s 12th edition focuses on providing a family-friendly cinematic experience, targeting audiences aged 8-25. It aims to engage attendees through workshops and discussions tailored for younger audiences. Featuring a diverse lineup of films including animation, documentaries, and live-action shorts. Ajyal seeks to inspire the next generation of filmmakers and film enthusiasts while fostering a love for cinema in the community.

Red Sea International Film Festival, Saudi Arabia: (December 5th-14th)


Red Sea International Film Festival | Source: timesoutdoha

One of the region’s most prestigious cinematic events, the Red Sea International Film Festival, will take place in the extravagant Al Balad district, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This festival showcases a diverse selection of films from Arab and international filmmakers, focusing on the growth of the Arab film industry. Emerging artists from Africa, Asia, and the Arab world eagerly anticipate the highly anticipated 4th edition of the event, which features competitions like the 48-Hour Short Film Challenge.

2025 | Upcoming Events following year

Spring of Culture, Bahrain: (January to March)


Spring of Culture, Bahrain Scheherazade Ballet | Source: bahrainthisweek

The festival runs annually and is a vibrant celebration of literature, music, art, and theater at prominent venues such as the Al Dana Amphitheatre and Al Riwaq Art Space. While details for the upcoming 19th edition are still pending, the previous year’s festival included standout performances from Lauryn Hill, as well as comedy acts and ballet productions like “A Thousand Tales.” This blend of entertainment showcased the festival’s commitment to diverse artistic expressions. This event showcases both local and international talent, enriching Bahrain’s cultural landscape.

Sharjah Light Festival, Sharjah (February 20th-26th)


Sharjah Light Festival, Sharjah Riots of Colours | Source: khaleejjtimes

The festival features a spectacular light show utilizing large-scale projection mapping to illuminate Sharjah’s iconic buildings and cultural landmarks. The projections include stunning images, motion graphics, and animations that transform the architecture into captivating visual art. Attracting international tourists and photography enthusiasts, the event also collaborates with the Xposure International Photography Festival, enhancing its appeal through a series of related activities and exhibitions.

Islamic Arts Biennale, Jeddah (January 25th to May 25th)


Islamic Arts Biennale, Jeddah Amongst Men | Source: arabnews

The Biennale is set to return for its 2nd edition at the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This biennale will feature a comprehensive exhibition that highlights the rich tapestry of Islamic arts, combining historical artifacts and contemporary works. Curated by an esteemed team, including Saudi artist Muhannad Shono, the event aims to explore architecture’s role in Islamic culture with the introduction of the AlMusalla Prize, a global competition for designing a sustainable prayer space


Light show highlighting the accomplishments of Intellect of the emirate | Source: englishalarabiya

The Middle East’s cultural landscape is thriving, with various events that will showcase its artistic diversity. Cultural enthusiasts should seek out these events to experience the region’s rich heritage and engage with local and international artists, making each visit truly unforgettable.

References

https://www.visitsharjah.com/events/sharjah-light-festival/

https://calendar.bh/en/spring-of-culture-festival

https://www.arabnews.com/node/1057876/amp

https://www.dohafilminstitute.com/filmfestival

https://redseafilmfest.com/en/

https://www.spa.gov.sa/en/N2062280

https://www.bna.bh/en/BahrainInternationalMusicFestival33rdeditiontokickoffonOctober1.aspx?cms=q8FmFJgiscL2fwIzON1%2BDkyN1BRAzGlrE18RsZAnVP8%3D

https://www.wtravelmagazine.com/8-experiences-events-immerse-saudi-arabia-culture/

https://www.admiddleeast.com/story/cultural-events-in-the-middle-east-you-cant-miss

https://www.e-flux.com/announcements/611754/islamic-arts-biennale-2025/#:~:text=Courtesy%20of%20Diriyah%20Biennale%20Foundation.%20The%20second,dedicated%20to%20the%20arts%20of%20Islamic%20civilization.

https://en.vogue.me/culture/islamic-arts-biennale-2025-jeddah-details/