Jeddah’s Contemporary Art & Design Scene

Beyond its historic facades, Jeddah is at the forefront of Saudi Arabia’s contemporary cultural renaissance. The city’s galleries, design studios, and creative collectives offer travellers a portal into the evolving identity of the Kingdom—bold, expressive, and richly rooted in tradition. Begin at Athr Gallery, one of the most acclaimed in the region. Located in a sleek industrial space, it hosts rotating exhibitions from Saudi and international artists exploring themes of identity, gender, environment, and tradition through cutting-edge mediums. Arrange for a curator-led tour, with insight into each artist’s vision and process. Continue to Hayy Jameel, an interdisciplinary creative hub that houses galleries, artisan cafés, concept shops, and design labs. Participate in a private calligraphy session, view rare textile art, or meet with local creatives shaping the city’s visual language. Jeddah’s creative energy also pulses in the streets—seen in murals, sculpture parks, and adaptive reuse spaces where coral stone meets neon and Arabic script flows like modern graffiti. Tailored itineraries may include visits to artist studios, fashion ateliers, or ceramic collectives. End your journey with a private sunset salon hosted by a local artist or gallerist, accompanied by gourmet canapés and thought-provoking conversation on the future of Saudi art. Jeddah’s contemporary scene is not just visual—it is visceral. It invites the traveller not only to observe, but to enter a dialogue where creativity becomes connection.