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The ancient oasis of AlUla is prepping for the ultimate comeback tour. Mark those calendars for 16 January to 14 February 2026, because the AlUla Arts Festival is throwing its fifth-anniversary party, and it’s set to be the most epic edition yet. Imagine contemporary art and pulse-racing performances woven into dramatic desert landscapes. This isn't just a festival; it's a full-scale cultural takeover!

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The Main Event: Desert X AlUla 2026

The headline act? The glorious return of Desert X AlUla! Running from 16 January to 28 February, this iconic open-air exhibition is where art literally meets earth. Curated by the visionary team of Wejdan Reda and Zoé Whitley, the 2026 theme is ‘Space Without Measure.’ Inspired by poet Kahlil Gibran, it’s all about boundless imagination and the human spirit—perfect for AlUla’s vast horizons. Get ready for mind-bending, site-responsive artworks from Saudi and international artists that become temporary landmarks in the monumental canyons. It’s a can’t-miss global cultural destination moment.

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Gallery Grandeur & Design Dreams

But wait, there’s SO much more! The festival is also the soft launch for AlUla’s future contemporary art museum with the landmark exhibition Arduna (“Our Land”). Created with the legendary Centre Pompidou, it features over 80 works exploring our tie to land and memory. Plus, Design Space AlUla is hosting its biggest programme ever, spotlighting goodies from the AlUla Design Award and gorgeous limited-edition pieces you can actually shop!

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The Beat of AlJadidah Arts District

Need a vibe shift? The AlJadidah Arts District is your go-to. This creative heart transforms into an open-air gallery and performance hub. We’re talking new public artworks, concerts at the AlUla Music Hub (hello, Arabic jazz fusion!), and film nights at Cinema AlJadidah. For a hands-on experience, Madrasat Addeera lets you craft alongside master artisans. It’s pure, joyful energy.

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Global Collaborations & Desert Serenity

For a dose of cultural exchange, head to Villa Hegra, the stunning Saudi–French cultural foundation. Their programme includes the captivating photography show Not Deserted and a breathtaking contemporary performance, Vertigo, featuring a French highliner and AlUla community performers. And for total serenity? Seek out Daimumah farm for peaceful workshops and planting sessions that reconnect you to the landscape.

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So, what are you waiting for? AlUla Arts Festival 2026 is your all-access pass to where ancient history and cutting-edge creativity collide. This is more than an event, it’s the evolution of a year-round global hub. See you in the desert!

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